The NICU admits approximately 500 newborns per year. Some babies stay in NICU for only four hours for observational care while other may spend up to four month receiving specialized care.

Some of the common reasons that babies require NICU care is they are born premature, have complications during or after birth, have respiratory distress, need treatments for infections, have problems requiring surgery, or have cardiac problems. Multiple births involving twins, triplets, etc often come to NICU for care.

If your baby is admitted to the NICU, she/he will be cared for by Neonatalogists (doctors who specialize in caring for sick newborns) and specially trained nurses. NICU has 24 hour midlevel coverage consisting of Physicians and Neonatal Nurse Practitioners. Sometimes doctors who specialize in other areas may be called on to see your baby. There is also a social worker who is available for support if you require. Other professionals who may be involved in your baby’s care include: Respiratory Therapist, Clinical Dietitian, Pharmacist, Laboratory staff, Radiology staff, Pediatric Surgeon and/or an Aboriginal Health Consultant.

NICU also operates a Neonatal Transport Team which transfers Approximately 60 newborns annually to and from the Regina General Hospital.

If you have concerns or questions, please ask anyone involved in your child's care at anytime. Information on your baby's condition is confidential and is only available to parents. Please pass this information on to other family members.

As a parent it is important for you to get to know your baby, even if she/he is very small. You are encouraged to visit your baby as often as possible. Due to infection control, siblings of the baby are not allowed to visit while the baby remains in the NICU. Please read about Visiting Your Baby in NICU to learn about the special precautions that visitors should take to ensure the health of your baby. Parents are responsible for making sure all visitors follow the rules.

Child specific CPR is offered and recommended for all parents who have an ill or premature baby. The CPR class is free of charge and you can discuss available times with the nurses and staff.

Car Seat:
SGI - Car Child Seat Safety

Transport Canada - Installation of Rear Facing Child Car Seats

Canada Safety Council - New Car Seat Regulations

Breastfeeding:
RQHR Breast Milk Depot

Government of Saskatchewan - Healthy Living - Breastfeeding Your Child

Saskatchewan Prevention Institute - Breastfeeding