Premature Births/Neonatal Intensive Care

Seton Family of Hospitals has three Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care units located at University Medical Center at Brackenridge, Dell Children’s Medical Center, and Seton Medical Center of Austin.  We also have a Level 2 NICU located at Seton Northwest Hospital for babies whose condition is determine to be less critical.

What is a Level 3 NICU? A level 3 neonatal intensive care unit is a special nursery for premature and sick newborns staffed by physicians (Neonatologist), nurses, and respiratory therapists specially trained to care for critically ill neonates.  Our physicians and healthcare team work around the clock to provide for your infant’s special needs. Equipment and procedures specifically designed for babies help the team treat sick newborns until they are healthy enough to go home.

The program of care is planned with consideration for the needs of each infant. Our staff is committed to the belief that every newborn deserves the care necessary to enable him/her to achieve his highest potential.

The staff further believes that the infants needs are best met when care is planned with sensitivity and responsiveness to the needs of the infant and parents and when separation of the family is reduced to a minimum. In addition, health care of the newborn must include an active program of teaching for the parents by all personnel.

The birth of a sick infant usually is an unexpected crisis, creating unique stress on the family. Feelings of grief are common as the happy expectation of a new and healthy baby turns to disappointment and anxiety. Feelings of anger or guilt may also arise, and parents often feel helpless as the care of their infant is turned over to others. All of these emotions are normal, and we hope that you will be able to share them with us. Often, simply talking about how you feel is helpful.

We also encourage you to become involved in your infant's care and ask questions. After all, you are the most important people in your baby's life. Above all, we hope you will find your experience to be one of honesty and hopefulness, understanding and acceptance.