CHESAPEAKE, Va. (WAVY) — Hampton Roads’ busiest mother-baby unit is about to deliver a brand new experience. A year-long renovation is almost complete and 10 On Your Side got a sneak peek.
They tore down the old rooms and now, every three rooms has become two, creating more space for new families.
Crews also created four additional rooms for a total of 36. Each boasts amenities such as a pull-out bed, refrigerator and lighted mirror in the spa shower.
“The really great thing about this space is this is all designed by the nurses,” said Carri Folwaczny, a registered nurse and mother baby unit manager. “So, the nurses were in on every stage of construction, all the way down to where the hand sanitizers are in the room.”
Baby bath-sized sinks in each room is where nurses will teach parents how to handle a slippery newborn. Education is a huge focus for the nurses.
“I love the babies. I love seeing the moms grow and feel confident and taking care of their babies,” said registered nurse Vicki Webster, a nursery and NICU manager.
The NICU has grown from eight to 12 beds and has been upgraded to a Level III. That means they care for smaller, sicker babies.
“We can care for her as low as 30 weeks now, so we don’t have to send the baby to CHKD or mom to Norfolk General,” Webster said.
That, she said, keeps moms, babies and families closer to each other.
Moms and families are invited to tour the new spaces during one of three open houses on Feb. 27, Feb. 28 and March 1. To RSVP, scan the QR code below.
