Western Health supports Family Centered Care. Family centered care focuses on the physical, social, psychological, spiritual and economic needs of the total family. Pregnancy and birth are considered normal and healthy life events. The value of family support, participation and choice is recognized. Families are encouraged to take an active role in their own health care. Our highly trained staff will take you through the birth experience with care and confidence.
Western Memorial Regional Hospital is equipped with 11 beds including 5 birthing rooms and a newborn nursery, if your baby requires a higher level of care
Western Health supports Breastfeeding and the staff on the Maternal Newborn Unit have all completed intensive training in breastfeeding to assist you better. Please visit the www.babyfriendlynl.ca for more information on breastfeeding and common baby concerns.
During the Birth
If you are having a vaginal delivery, two support people are able to be present for the labour and birth of your baby. Staff will inform you when photography can take place.
If you are having a Caesarean Section, one support person may be present. The Operating Room staff will let you know when you can enter the Operating Room (OR).
Photography will be permitted in the OR at certain times. No video taping or photography is permitted during the actual operation, but is permitted after the baby is born.Your nurse will let you know when you can begin your photography.
Visiting
One support person is welcome to stay with you and your baby at all times. If you are in a semi private room, consideration has to be given to your roommate during sleeping hours.
Friends may visit during normal visiting hours:
Between 2- 4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.
Universal Newborn Hearing Screening
During your stay at Western Memorial Regional Hospital, tour baby's hearing will be screened. If there are any concerns, your baby may require a follow-up evaluation by Audiology. For more information, please see our brochure.
Referral to Public health
Upon your discharge a referral to public health nursing will be sent. A nurse will call you soon after your discharge to speak to you by phone or arrange a home visit.
For more information, please contact:
Western Health Western Memorial Regional Hospital-Maternal Newborn Unit
709-637-5000 ext. 5201