Saint Joseph Hospital & Good Samaritan Hospital
Neonatal Intensive Care Units
(NICU)

Tips for Brothers & Sisters

​

• It is important for siblings to visit their new brother or sister. The baby will then be “real” and they can begin to form a bond.

   

• Only your baby’s siblings may visit the NICU. Other children are not allowed in the NICU. 

   

• The best time for siblings to visit is from 9 in the morning to 9 at night. Siblings may visit, but may not stay overnight.

   

• They must be well when they visit. If they are sick with anything including a cold or cold-like symtoms, diarrhea, fever, cough, cold sores, pink eye or rashes they will not be allowed in the NICU.

   

• Give your other children about 15-20 minutes to visit the new baby. During the visit, encourage siblings to talk quietly to and touch the baby.

   

• You will need to be available for your baby, and not always able to take care of your other children. So, as much as possible, we need you to have a support person present in the NICU to supervise the sibling. Siblings under 12 years of age in the family room must be supervised by an adult.

   

• Before visiting, prepare your children for what they will see.  Show them pictures of the baby.  Children will tend to focus on the baby. Explain in simple terms about the machines, tubes and wires to help relieve any fears they may have.

   

• After the visit, talk to your children about what they saw. Give them time to ask questions and talk about what they are feeling.

   

• Between visits, give them brief, simple updates – both good and bad – on how your baby is doing.  This will help ease their worries and make them feel a part of this.

 

• Your children will NOT be able to visit during flu season. This is to keep down the risk of germs in the NICU.

 

• We know that not being able to visit during flu season is difficult for siblings who have been eagerly awaiting the baby’s birth.  There are other ways to involve them in welcoming the new baby.  Some ideas include sharing  photos, feet prints, tiny diapers and clothing. Short periods of FaceTime may be appropriate. Sibling can do things too such as to write letters, draw pictures or pick out clothes, blankets, or “toys” for their new baby.

​

• Even though your baby is in the hospital, remember to spend special time with your other children.  Read stories, play or go for a walk together. It is important that you let your other children know that you have enough love for them and the new baby.