Our NICU has 31 cots providing a mix of intensive care, high dependency and special care facilities to babies that need extra care from birth to approximately four weeks post term. We are a specialist referral centre for neonatal surgery and cardiology and admit many babies from all over the South West, South Wales and occasionally further afield.

Some parents have the opportunity to visit NICU before the birth of their baby and so may have some idea of what the environment is like. For other parents, coming to NICU is unplanned and can be a very challenging time. We hope these website pages will help in giving you some vital information but please ask on the ward or view the contact details on the last tab of this page if you have any questions or concerns.

Facilities

There are two sitting rooms for families and their guests, one with basic kitchen facilities to make hot drinks and light meals. There is also an expressing room for mothers and toilet facilities for all visitors. There is a cafe selling hot drinks and snacks on the ground floor as well as vending machines.

Visiting

Visiting for parents and siblings is allowed at all times of the day, however there may be occasions during nurses' handovers or consultant ward rounds when you may be asked not to visit. Other adult visitors are welcome between 4-7pm.

Car Parking

There is huge demand for city centre spaces but the Trust offers a number of pay and display car parks within the wider Trust site. For families whose baby is on NICU we can offer a parking voucher, please just ask.

Accomodation 'Cots for Tots House'

Our dedicated charity, Cots for Tots, provides free accomodation to parents who live far away and wish to be near their baby. 'Cots for Tots House' is situated opposite the main hospital entrance and has 12 rooms, plus communal kitchen, laundry, bathroom and living areas. Availability is limited but please talk to someone on the ward for more information.

Breast feeding

Breast feeding is the healthiest way to feed your baby - your milk is perfect and uniquely made for your growing baby's needs. On NICU many babies are not able to have milk straight away but it is really important that, if you are planning to breastfeed, mums start to express their milk as soon as possible after delivery. There is a dedicated expressing room open 24 hours a day. We have a team of key workers whose aim is to facilitate breast feeding on the unit and can support mothers to manage the complexities and challenges faced by parents whose babies are in NICU. If you choose not to express milk and wish to formula feed, we will support this decision and provide the milk you choose (if appropriate).

Family Support

Our part time family support nursing sister will try and introduce herself to you whilst your baby is on the unit. You may want to talk to her about how you are feeling or practical issues. In addition we have access to two qualified psychologists who can provide direct support or signpost you to further services if needed. We are also fortunate to have access to a family support worker, fully funded by The Grand Appeal. Access to the chaplaincy department can also be arranged. If you are experiencing emotional, social or financial difficulties whilst staying at the hospital a member of staff can refer you to the appropriate member of the team for support.

All medical and nursing staff work a shift system, so you may meet all or some of the team during your baby's stay.

Doctors

We have a team of neonatologists (doctors specialising in the care of new born babies) who will be responsible for the medical care of your baby during their stay at St Michael's. These are supported by a team of doctors called specialist registrars, clinical fellows and senior house officers who will provide daily medical care.

Advanced neonatal nurse practitioners

These nurses have completed additional training to become competent in what were traditionally doctors' roles.

Neonatal nurses

There is a large team of specially trained nurses to care for your baby 24 hours a day, led by our Matron Kay Pullen. On most days, the day to day running of the unit will be coordinated by a senior sister/charge nurse.

Community team

The community neonatal team may stay in touch with families in the Bristol area once you have left NICU. This team provide specialist help in the community and help to bridge the gap for families who have been in hospital for a long period of time. 

Regional Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Level D

St Michaels Hospital

Southwell Street

Bristol

BS2 8EG

Tel : 0117 342 1737 /1736