Welcome to Transitional care Ward
Date issued: August 2023
Review date: August 2025
Ref: D-402/SU/Neonatal/Welcome to Transitional care ward
PDF: Welcome to Transitional care ward final August 2023.pdf [pdf] 315KB
Transitional Care Ward (TCW) is a post natal ward that cares for babies born from 34 weeks that require additional support.
Our goal is to keep parents/ carers with their babies during this time.
However, some babies require treatment on NICU and we will support you in the care of your baby during their stay.
Arriving on TCW can be an overwhelming experience. But we want to reassure you that you will be included in all aspects of your baby's care.
Feeding your baby
However you choose to feed your baby, we are here to support you.
Breastfeeding has many benefits for both you and your baby. Breastmilk is full of antibodies that will help your baby fight infections, as well as increase gut health. This is particularly important for premature babies and those that are smaller for gestational age. We have breast pumps and kits for milk expression, as well as fridges and freezers for storage.
If you wish to bottle feed with either breast milk or formula then sterile bottles, a range teats and pre made formula are available on the unit.
Some babies may require a nasogastric tube to support their feeding. You will be taught the skills needed so that you are able to feed your baby independently.
We ask that you please provide your own nappies, cotton wool and clothing.
Visiting
Birth partners and siblings are able to visit 8am to 8pm. Other visitors are welcome between 4pm to 7pm, with no more than 3 to a bedside. If your baby is on NICU then parents and siblings have open visiting. Please could we request that all other visitors are over the age of 14 and are illness free. Handwashing guidelines must be followed at all times.
Car parking permits are available and can be requested from the ward clerk or the staff caring for you. They must be renewed every 7 days.
Important information
Mealtimes:
Breakfast: 8am
Coffee/ Tea: 10.30am
Lunch: 12pm
Coffee/ Tea: 2pm
Evening meal: 6pm
Coffee: 8pm
Drinks and snacks are available at request throughout the day.
Please inform staff of any dietary requirements, including gluten free, vegan, vegetarian, halal and other.
Your Team on TCW
Neonatal Consultants: Dark blue
ANNP's: Aubergine
Neonatal Doctors: Green
Midwife: Dark Blue
Nursery Nurse: Pink
Neonatal Outreach Nurse: Blue with spots
Health care assistant: Green
Housekeeper: Grey
If You have any concerns while you're staying on TCW, please ask to speak to our Senior Sister Sarah Underwood, Neonatal Service Matron Katie Hoffman or Matron Helen Harling of Inpatient Maternity.
