A New Beginning

CHOOSING YOUR BABY’S HEALTH CARE PROVIDER If you did not choose a health care provider for your baby before they were born, please do so TODAY . Choose someone who makes you feel comfortable. Ask friends and family for suggestions. Your options include: • A pediatrician (a doctor who specializes in treating babies and children) • A pediatric physician’s assistant (PA) • A pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP) • A family practice doctor • A family practice nurse practitioner (FNP) Questions to Help You Choose • Will the same health care provider see my baby each time? • What are your office hours? • Are there different locations or offices?

• What do I do if my baby gets sick and your office is closed? • What is the cost of an office visit and is it covered by my insurance? • How do I contact you if I have questions? • Are there separate areas in your office waiting room for sick and healthy babies? • What support do you offer for breastfeeding? Extremely Important: Identify your baby’s health care provider and tell your nurse the provider’s name and office information who will care for baby at home. This information is required to complete the State of Georgia MANDATORY metabolic screening, which happens when your baby is 24 hours old.

Your Baby’s Hospitalization

Newborn Identification and Security

NEWBORN IDENTIFICATION Northside Hospital uses a 4 band (bracelet) system with a number for identification and security. One bracelet will be placed on your wrist, 2 bracelets on baby (wrist and ankle) and one bracelet on your

support person. Your nurse will check and verify your baby’s band information with your band information to ensure that it matches each time your baby returns from the nursery. In addition to the 4 band system, a security sensor will be placed on your baby’s ankle upon arrival at the family centered care unit. HOSPITAL SECURITY MEASURES • Specialized Training – All staff caring for babies have specialized safety and security training. • Secured Unit – Your room is located on a floor with locked entrances and exits. This means that your support person will enter through specific doors that will be identified for you. • An Electronic Newborn Security System – This consists of a newborn bracelet and sensor, security doors/elevators, and video cameras. Please do not tamper or play with your baby’s bracelet or tag. • Staff Photo ID System – Staff who are permitted to care for your baby have a lavender photo ID.

Keep Your Baby Safe

• Always ask to see a staff member’s lavender badge, and never give baby to anyone who does not have this special badge. • Always ask why your baby is being taken from your room. • Report suspicious activity or people to your nurse immediately. • Do not give out personal information over the telephone unless you are certain of the person’s identity.

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Chapter 6: Your Baby’s Hospitalization