Bartlett Regional | HouseCalls | Summer 2016

www.bartletthospital.org 3 They are images from the not-so- distant past: an anxious dad pacing the waiting room, eager for word of his wife and new baby. Grandparents given just a peek of their newest grandchild. A new baby’s siblings, aunts and uncles kept away. What a difference a few decades make. Today, childbirth is often considered a family affair, with loved ones and friends visiting the hospital and even attending the birth. Special event Having a baby is a joyful event that many moms understandably want to share with others. And more women are glad to be welcoming their babies through a family- centered approach to childbirth. We’re proud to offer this style of maternity care, which can help family members be more involved in the birthing process within the safe environment of the hospital. Doctors and nurses focus on delivering high-quality medical care—on what’s best for mom and her baby. But women are encouraged to make personal choices during the process as well. And families and friends are welcome to be involved. Guiding principles We know that mothers and their families want a personalized experience during and after the birth of a new baby. And we embrace a family-centered model of childbirth by: w w Recognizing the individual needs of the mother and her family. w w Providing coordinated, compassionate care before, during and after the birth. w w Encouraging strong bonds between a mother and her newborn and helping establish a good feeding routine. w w Having an experienced, skilled and caring medical staff. Here for new parents One thing that hasn’t changed over time is that new parents usually have questions and concerns about caring for a newborn. You can be assured that staff members are available 24 hours a day to answer those questions and to offer support and encouragement for new families. Good to know Used baby cribs Weak slats, ill-fittingmattresses, and sides that go up and down: These common features of used cribs can endanger your baby’s life. So for safety’s sake, say “No, thanks” to secondhand cribs. Source: March of Dimes Pacifiers Inspect baby pacifiers often. If they’re discolored or torn, replace them— pacifiers deteriorate over time. Source: American Academy of Pediatrics Make way for a b y B BABY BASICS