Length of stay
Typically your stay will be anywhere between 24-72 hours. Your length of stay depends on whether you had a C-Section or gave birth naturally. Mother and newborn health are looked at upon discharge.
Tests Performed
Mother:
You will have your blood drawn upon arrival to give a baseline for what your plan of care will look like. A day after delivery, this test will be performed again to ensure stability before going home.
Newborn:
When your baby is 24 hours old, multiple tests will be performed including blood tests, congenital heart screen (looks for abnormalities in the heart), and a hearing screen.
Nurses will make you aware of what tests will be done when and about how long they should take. Nurses also weigh the baby each morning to make sure that weight isn’t being lost before sending you home.
What to Bring to the Hospital
We know you have many things on your mind, use our simple list of recommended items to help you pack for your stay.
- Music to help soothe you
- Toiletries
- Favorite snacks for support person
- Books/cards/laptop to help pass the time
- Camera and charger
- Cell phone and charger
- Slippers and bathrobe
- Comfortable going home outfit for mom (bra, socks, shoes)
- Newborn going home outfit
- Clothes for support person
- Change for vending machine
- Car seat
- Nursing pillow (optional)