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PodcastNew camera system brings families closer to hospitalized newborns
The NicView installation was made possible by a donation from the Young family to the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation specifically for updates to the UPMC Carlisle NICU.
“Having a baby in the NICU can be a very stressful and frightening time for families, and it is even more difficult when they can’t be at the hospital with their baby,” said Jarrod Johnson, president, UPMC Carlisle. “Being able to view their newborn on the camera is very reassuring and helps parents stay connected with the baby and the medical team. We are committed to continuing to deliver excellence in all we do for our patients and families in this community.”
Six cameras are installed in the NICU and are mounted above the baby’s care station, which provides families access to a live video stream that they can watch from a computer or mobile device throughout the day, UPMC in Central Pa. said.
Video streaming on demand helps reduce the distress and anxiety a mother can feel when separated from her newborn. The visual stimulus supports the mother-baby bonding process and can assist with milk flow during breastmilk expression while mother and baby are separated. UPMC Carlisle said the family can watch and learn their newborn’s routines in the NICU, helping smooth the transition to life at home.
The cameras run on the hospital’s network and do not interfere in any way with the technology otherwise in use in the unit. NICU staff have been trained on the use of the system and have the option of turning off the camera when requested by parents.
For security and safety, the system does not transmit sound, and none of the images are recorded or stored. Only the infant’s parents are given a unique username and password to access the live stream video of their baby.
The NicView system is designed to comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, which requires confidential handling of patient information.
“Being able to view their newborn on the camera is very reassuring and helps parents stay connected with the baby and the medical team. We are committed to continuing to deliver excellence in all we do for our patients and families in this community.”