Sierra Providence East Medical Center’s six-bed Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) offers the highest state-recognized level of care for premature and critically ill babies. An in-house board-certified neonatologist and neonatal nurse practitioners are on staff, 24/7 to meet the needs of our smallest patients. In addition to advanced medical proficiency and advanced technology, the NICU team offers a family-centered approach to neonatal care. The NICU is equipped to care for premature babies and other infants requiring immediate and sophisticated medical care. These infants receive around-the-clock monitoring and observation by registered nurses and certified neonatal nurse practitioners.

The staff meets the parents’ needs for contact with their baby as much as possible. The mother can come to the NICU to touch her baby as soon as possible and hold her baby’s hand even if the infant is too small to hold. A Neonatal Transport Team, under medical supervision, brings babies needing Level III care from across the region. The unit provides an extra measure of assurance to families, who know that high-level resources for newborns are only steps away in case they are needed. Because having an infant in the NICU is stressful for families, our social workers work closely with the families and the unit’s staff. There is a Parents’ Sleep Room that ensures mothers and dads can stay close to their baby during the NICU stay.  

We focus on the family as a whole. Nurses, with specialized education, offer support and education while mothers are in the hospital. We encourage mothers to spend as much time as possible with their newborns, to begin learning their individual cues and become comfortable with their care.  

Our staff is experienced, professional, caring and sensitive to your needs. No matter what kind of birth experience you may choose, our nurses will guide and help you throughout the process.  Preparing new parents is a priority. Our nursing staff teach mom and family members how to change diapers, wrap and feed their newborn. Nurses may encourage you to attend our Infant Care Class and will provide additional assistance and resources as needed.