Three at a time
In order to maintain a quiet, healing environment for our patients to continue to grow and develop, we limit the number of those visiting at one time to 3 at a bedside. Any other visitors may wait in our waiting area at the entrance of the NICU until their turn to visit.
Who can visit?
We welcome families and their supports over the age of 16 years to visit at any time. Siblings (brothers and sisters of the baby) may visit after providing proof of up to date immunizations. An adult must accompany siblings at all times. To ensure our patients are protected from common childhood illnesses, all other children are restricted from visiting in the NICU.
Why do I need to show my other children’s immunization records before they visit?
To protect our very tiny, fragile and sick patients who can easily pick up illnesses, especially from children. We require a copy of your other children’s current immunization records to be reviewed with the Charge Nurse. Siblings must have had the Chicken Pox or have received the Varicella vaccine. If you do not have your child’s immunization record card, contact your family doctor or local health unit for a copy. NICU FAX #519-685-8348
Why do I need to complete a Visitor’s form to allow my support people to see my baby?
To protect you and your baby’s privacy and confidentiality, we ask that the support people that you wish to visit your baby when you are not present, have their names placed on this form. Staff will not share information regarding your baby’s health with your visitors. Your visitors will be instructed to speak with you for any health information.
Why are there restrictions on sibling visits during the winter?
During the winter and early spring months, viruses are circulating in the community. One of the viruses is Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), which causes upper respiratory infections in young children. For this reason and to protect our vulnerable patients, siblings who have not had their second birthday are restricted from visiting during this time, usually from November to April.
How does the flu season affect visiting in the NICU?
Non-vaccinated family and visitors may be required to wear a mask when the flu is circulating in the community. We recommend that you get a flu shot to help protect your baby from the flu. To arrange for a flu vaccine, call your family doctor, local pharmacy or community flu vaccination clinics organized by the public health unit.
When should people not visit my baby?
Speak to everyone you would like to have visit your baby in the NICU about their health before they plan to visit.
No one should visit if they say YES to any of the following:
- A cold or runny nose
- A cough
- A fever, adult temperature greater than 37.8 °C (100°F), child temperature greater than 38°C (100.4°F)
- Diarrhea or vomiting (must be free of this for 48 hours)
- A cold sore, or feel a cold sore starting
- A rash, itchy skin or an infection on the skin or hands
- Sore throat
- Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
- Been in contact with any communicable disease (chicken pox, measles, and mumps) in the last 3 weeks prior to visiting.
If you, a parent, are feeling unwell, speak with your nurse to discuss your symptoms and if it is, appropriate for you to visit.
