Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

We know when a newborn baby is ill there is no time more stressful or worrisome for the family. Parents want immediate access to medical expertise and technological assistance. You will find that high level of care at The Women’s Pavilion at College Station Medical Center. Staffed by Neonatalogists, Neonatal Nurse Practitioners and Pediatric SubSpecialists the Med’s Level 111 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is the highest level of quality care for at-risk newborns. For little ones who need special care, rest assured, this is the place to be.

We feel fortunate you have chosen us to care for your infant. Under the leadership of Craig Steiner, MD, Neonatologist & NICU Director and Neonatal Nurse Practitioners available 24/7, we will do our best to provide the special care needed for your little one. Family bonding with your infant is highly encouraged. Every effort will be made to help you understand the care that is being given to your infant, questions are welcomed and encouraged.

All the machines may seem overwhelming, but don't let them keep you from interacting with your baby. Bonding with a baby in the NICU is as important as bonding with any new baby, sometimes even more so. You will learn what is best for you and your baby.

Breastfeeding

There is a private breastfeeding room equipped with rockers for your comfort. Mothers are encouraged to pump their breasts for expressed breast milk. We will furnish containers and labels, and store the milk in the NICU freezer.

Waiting Areas

Family can wait in the Family Waiting Room located adjacent to the Nursery. Coffee is provided and food is permitted in this area. However, in accordance with OSHA/JCAHO food is not permitted in the NICU or at any nurse’s station.

Cell Phones & Internet

Cell phones are not allowed in the hospital’s patient care areas because they can potentially interfere with "life saving equipment.” However, they may be used on the first floor of the hospital waiting areas. Free wireless internet access if available on first floor in the hospital waiting areas.

Hotel Accommodations

The Marriott Courtyard and the Quality Inn of College Station have available discounted hotel accommodations for families needing to stay close by their little one. Be sure to reference College Station Medical Center’s NICU when making reservations.

We recognize this could be a very stressful time for you. Our goal is to provide the best possible care for your infant. These procedures and rules are an important part of our efforts to keep your infant in a safe and secure environment.

Visitation Routines:

Our NICU is closed for visits from  6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. every day. This is to provide our staff time to change shifts and time to complete assessments.

When you visit, we ask that you start by coming to our 3rd floor waiting room and calling Ext. 5764.  You may proceed to the doorway of the Unit if the NICU staff has cleared your visit. Please do not go to the Nursery door and knock. Staff will come to let you in after speaking with you on the phone from the waiting area. If you are still a patient in our hospital, please call from your room and notify your post partum nurse so they can assist you if needed.

You will be required to perform a 3-minute scrub of your hands up to your elbows prior to your visit. You may follow that with the use of alcohol foam for subsequent visits while in the building.

If you have a “cold” or any other type of illness, you may be required to wear a gown, gloves, or mask to prevent infection in babies who are at risk. Visitation, when you are well is encouraged.

Contact Numbers

NICU:  979-764-5115
College Station Medical Center: 979-764-5100
Director of Maternal Child Health Service: 979-764-5242