By HFT Staff

LewisGale Medical Center in Salem, Virginia, recently opened a new Level II neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), also called a special care nursery at the facility. 

Containing 3,000 square feet, the NICU will feature six bassinets to expand as needed. On-site board-certified neonatologists will treat medically fragile, pre-term and full-term newborns with complications that include: breathing issues, infection, feeding issues, growth support, withdrawal support, temperature stabilization and maternal health concerns that potentially require pre-term delivery 24/7. 

Construction on the $2.5 million project will take approximately eight months, with a planned opening in summer 2023. 

The highly secured area will feature infant security and constant monitoring of the baby’s heart rates, respiratory rates, temperature and blood pressure. Radiant warmers, incubators and open cribs are also featured, as well as assistance in breathing, including a ventilator or other oxygenation methods.