NICU Navigator Program at Sharp Mary Birch Hospital

Providing Comfort to Parents

The NICU Navigator Program at Sharp Mary Birch
A NICU Navigator assists new parents at Sharp Mary Birch.

At Sharp Mary Birch, we understand that having a child in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) can be overwhelming. That’s why we created the NICU Navigator Program, the only program of its kind in San Diego County. This unique program is designed to connect parents whose babies are currently in the NICU with those of babies who previously graduated from the NICU to provide advice, encouragement and a comforting shoulder.

These Navigators — along with our skilled caregivers — are a valuable source of information and guidance for families during this time. They are available to provide you with emotional support and help you understand what to expect during your child’s time in the NICU.

How the NICU Navigator Program Can Help

NICU Navigators can:

  • Answer questions parents have, or direct them to the appropriate resource
  • Help parents stay organized and assist them with keeping track of information
  • Prepare families for the transition from hospital to home
  • Provide suggestions on how to talk to parents' other children about the new baby being in the NICU
  • Recommend ways to update friends and loved ones in a personal and easy way

Parent Hour

Parent Hour is an hour-long informational session that focuses on enhancing a parent's developing relationship with his or her newborn. Each session focuses on different topics such as premature growth and development, parenting a NICU infant, feeding, bonding, medications, preparing for discharge and surviving the NICU.

Facilitated by NICU staff members with a variety of expertise, Parent Hour empowers parents to become more knowledgeable about their newborn. Light refreshments are served, and the informal environment invites attendees to share experiences and establish friendships with fellow parents. Parents may start attending Parent Hour at any point during their newborn's stay in the NICU.

For more information, including Parent Hour dates, times and location, call 858-939-4802.

NICU Patient Story

Todd and Stephanie Stichler know all too well the helplessness that comes with having children in the NICU. In 2001, his twin daughters Ella and Cameryn were born at 29 weeks and spent 2 months in the NICU at Sharp Mary Birch. Now, years after their daughters' successful outcomes at Sharp Mary Birch, Todd and Stephanie presented the idea for the NICU Navigator Program to hospital leadership, along with a donation to get the program started. Read the Stichlers' story now.

For More Information About the NICU Navigator Program

To learn more or to request support from a NICU Navigator, please call 858-939-4802.