Support Programs

Developmentally Supportive Care

Our NICU are proud to offer the highest level of care combined with a compassionate approach. We provide developmentally supportive and family-centered care through multiple programs including the Kangaroo Care and Lactation Support.

Kangaroo Care (Skin-to-Skin Care)

MemorialCare teaches and encourages Kangaroo Care, which has been shown to have a significant impact on survival and growth rates and can decrease the number of days in the hospital. Skin-to-skin care involves placing a diaper-clad, premature infant in an upright position on a parent’s bare chest – tummy to tummy – with the infant’s head turned so that the ear is above the parent’s heart. Kangaroo Care is safe and beneficial even if the infant is connected to high-tech equipment.

Breastfeeding Your Baby

Experts agree that breast milk provides many vital health benefits for all newborns. There are many special advantages for premature and sick babies. In the NICU, RN Lactation Specialists provide certified lactation consultation for new parents. They help the mother provide this important nutrition in the way that works best for the premature infant and the parents at each stage of their baby’s development. The breastfeeding/lactation support programs include individualized assessment and teaching, on-site breast pumps, and cozy private pumping rooms. On occasion, babies in the NICU may be too small or too sick to nurse. If this is the case with your newborn, we will make sure you receive as much support as needed with pumping and storing your breast milk to ensure your baby receives the benefits of his/her mother’s milk.

Shop at one of our breastfeeding supply stores near you:

• Essentials at Miller Children’s Hospital
• Transitions at Saddleback Memorial Medical Center