[NICU_Nurse]

Hi, guys! Do any of you work for units or hospitals that utilize nicu-specific or nicu-altered software programs or online libraries that are DIRECTLY RELEVANT to the nicu? I don't mean generalized 'aftercare' handouts or things that are for term, healthy babies and kids.

Also, how do you personalize the nicu experience for your families? Do you ever email pictures taken on a digital camera? do they get a website that is updated by staff, or parents? Do you make crib cards, etc.? Anything would be nice. We're looking for improvements and this is really a free-flow brainstorming kind of post.

Thanks!

The babies are calling. ;>)

[Sweeper933]

We have digital cameras on the unit that we will take pictures of the babies with (we have parents sign a consent form first). We can print out the pictures and / or e-mail them to the parents as well. Parents always enjoy coming in for the day to find some new cute pictures printed out from during the night! We also make cute little picture cards for all the (major and minor) holidays to put up at the bedsides as well.

We also create cute name signs for each baby to hang on their isolette / cribs. One of our secretaries or the nurse will make them.

As far as a personalized website goes, that has been "in the works" for our unit for some time now. I do know that some parents will do their own website they they update for their families and friends to look at.

Hope this helps!