The obstetrical population is derived primarily from prenatal clinics operated by Los Angeles County within a 20 mile radius of Harbor-UCLA which serve primarily minority populations. There is an extensive computer supported system for gathering data on high risk pregnancies throughout the region to monitor patient care, and to provide data for teaching and research purposes. Approximately 10 infants are seen each week. Attending neonatologists, neonatal fellows and the nurse coordinator provide continuity, supervision and support. As this is a passive immunization, monthly injections are needed during the winter months.
Discharge planning is key.
When babies are born prematurely and are 1800 grams, the RSV Prophylaxis coordinator, Fran Todd, PNP, is contacted. The Harbor-UCLA NICU serves as a Regional Referral Center for critically ill newborns and other children during the first month of life. Eight community hospitals with affiliated intermediate care nurseries refer patients to Harbor-UCLA s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. The Neonatal Critical Care Transport team includes a neonatal physician specialist, a critical nurse and a respiratory therapist. For critically ill infants, or those with complex or multiple disorders the neonatal fellow accompanies the primary team.