Regional Center for Newborn Intensive Care (RCNIC)

Frequent Questions

The Regional Center for Newborn Intensive Care (RCNIC) at Children's Hospital Medical Center of Cincinnati provides the following frequently asked questions (FAQs) and answers.

Q: When we are ready to go home, how will my pediatrician get the information about my baby?

A: The neonatologist will write a letter to your pediatrician prior to going home so that your pediatrician is informed about your baby's hospital stay in the RCNIC.

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Q: If I have questions about my baby's condition, how can I reach the neonatologist?

A: The Neonatologist and the team make rounds daily and will discuss the care of your infant. You are welcome to be present during your baby's rounds. They are held every morning. You can also request that your nurse page the doctor to come talk to you.

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Q: What time can I come to visit my baby?

A: Parents and grandparents may visit 24 hours a day. Soon after admission, your baby's nurse will work with you to design a visitation plan for your baby.

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Q: Is it OK to bring my other children with me to visit?

A: Siblings must be at least 3 years old to visit. You must bring the child's up-to-date immunization record with you or siblings over 3 will not be allowed to enter the unit. There are special times during the year when we do not allow sibling visitation because of the risk of colds and infection; we will let you know well in advance of this time.

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Q: How many people can I have visit at one time?

A: You are allowed four visitors at the bedside at one time.

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Q: What kinds of newborn testing will my infant receive?

A: Newborn screening (PKU) - State law requires a blood test that determines if your baby has a special problem digesting proteins found in food.

Hearing Screen - Completed by an audiologist from Cincinnati Children's. You will be required to fill out one sheet of information prior to the test.

Eye Exam - Some premature babies may be at risk for vision problems. A special eye doctor trained in testing newborn babies (ophthamologist) does this test in the RCNIC.

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Q: What happens if I want my son circumcised?

A: Circumcision services are available before discharge. After reviewing educational materials and giving your consent, the Urology Division or Pediatric Surgery Division will perform the circumcision.

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Q: If my baby needs surgery, how do we find a surgeon?

A: If your baby needs an operation, a Cincinnati Children's surgeon from the Pediatric Surgery Division will evaluate your baby. Cincinnati Children's surgeons are experts in the surgical care of newborns.

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Q: If I have questions or want an update on my baby's condition, how can I reach the surgeon?

A: The surgical team will visit your baby daily and a Cincinnati Children's surgeon is available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can reach your surgeon through your baby's nurse, or you can call the surgical office at 513-636-4371. It is helpful to write down your questions prior to calling the surgeon so you can get all of the answers you need.

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