Look Closely and You will See a Difference - Boekelheide Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Sanford Children's Hospital
Some babies are born too early and need specialized care; others are born on time and need a little something extra during their first few days of life. Hundreds of little miracles begin their little lives in the Boekelheide Neonatal Intensive Care Unit each year – over 1000 in fact.
Our new Boekelheide Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) provides a setting in which the latest technology is available to care for tiny lives in a family friendly environment. From family suites that provide privacy, to Giraffe Beds that significantly reduce the need to transfer infants, the new Boekelheide NICU is an exciting addition to our region.
Boekelheide Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Family-centered care
Forty-five single family suites with capacity for fifty-eight patients
Twin and triplet rooms
Thirty-one Giraffe® beds
Indirect lighting and silent alarms help to create an environment conducive to growth and development
Family Welcome Area
Web-cam access to infant if family members are unable to be in the room
Neonatologist on-site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Staff includes neonatal nurse practitioners, case managers, registered nurses, respiratory therapists, child life specialists, social workers, pharmacists, nutritionists and nurse aides
It’s All About the Babies...
As the first phase of Sanford Children’s Hospital, the Boekelheide Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) carries the philosophy of Sanford Children’s Hospital – it is all about the kids. This philosophy is reflected not only throughout the design of the new Boekelheide NICU, but is exemplified by our highly trained, caring professionals on a daily basis.
And the Families...
Families are encouraged to participate in the care of their new babies. With private family rooms, families have a more ideal space to create and foster bonds with their infants. Each room has a family area with a sofa, wardrobe, refrigerator and desk. In addition, webcams are available for families who cannot visit their newest members at their bedsides.
The Family Welcome Area offers a kitchenette and play area for children, as well as an area for families to get to know one another. While in the unit, many families experience similar situations and can be a strong support network for each other.
And the Care They Receive...
If there is a known risk that a baby will be born needing care in a neonatal intensive care unit, Perinatologists at Sanford work with Boekelheide NICU Neonatologists to begin planning for that care before the baby is born. Even when there isn’t a known risk, the Boekelheide NICU team is available should the need arise.
What is...
a Giraffe® OmniBed®?
A Giraffe® Omnibed® is an innovative bassinet that:
Provides a temperature controlled environment
Blocks outside light and sound
Weighs the baby
Rotates 360 degrees
Provides a setting where surgery can be conducted, if necessary
...a Neonatologist?
A physician who specializes in the branch of pediatrics that deals with the diseases and care of newborn babies.
...a Perinatologist?
A physician who specializes in the medical study of the life and development of babies during pregnancy.
Boekelheide NICU Neonatologists, along with other specialized medical professionals, make up the dedicated team that cares for each baby 24 hours a day, 7 days a week until it’s time to go home. In addition, a Neonatal Transport Team is available when an infant is transferred to the Boekelheide NICU via fixed-wing, helicopter or ambulance. Extra measures are taken to ensure these tiny little wonders are receiving the best care they can get.
The Boekelheide Family
The Boekelheide Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is named in honor of Amanda Kay Boekelheide, born January 18, 1988 at Sanford USD Medical Center Hospital USD Medical Center. Amanda weighed just four pounds, four ounces at birth and spent the first four months of her life in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Kerry and Donna Boekelheide, Amanda’s parents, have made a generous gift to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Sanford Children’s Hospital as a heartfelt expression of gratitude for the care Amanda received while at Sanford. Their desire to support healthcare for our region’s youngest and most vulnerable children is greatly appreciated.
If you would like to make a charitable gift to help ensure the best possible care is always available for our children, please stop at the Sanford Health Foundation office or visit us online and Make a Gift Today. Your support is appreciated!
