Babies can be admitted to the SCBU for all sorts of reasons, such as:
- they are born early
- they are a very low birth weight
- their mother has diabetes or gestational diabetes
- they have an infection
- they have jaundice
- they need help feeding
We also care for babies who need to have their breathing and heart rate monitored.
If your baby needs intensive care or surgery they’ll be transferred to specialist services, usually in Newcastle.
If your baby needs to be admitted to the SCBU we’ll explain why and what kind of treatment they’ll be given. Some treatments need your consent and your doctor will discuss this with you if needed.
When your baby is settled in, you can ask the nurse to explain what everything is for and show you how you can be involved in your baby’s care. Once your baby’s stable, you’ll be able to hold them.
In some cases, your baby may be able to receive treatment from the SCBU nurses but remain with you on the postnatal ward.
We’ll do everything we can to support you and make sure you’re involved all aspects of your baby’s care. You’re welcome to ring us any time to ask about your baby on the numbers below. We can only give information about babies on the SCBU to parents.
Cumberland Infirmary
01228 814271
West Cumberland Hospital
01946 693181 ext 24248
You’re also welcome to email us with enquiries, comments or suggestions scbu@ncuh.nhs.uk