Home to the only neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in Marion and Polk counties, Salem Health is committed to giving your baby highly specialized medical and nursing care.
Our level III NICU provides sustained life support and access to a full range of neonatal specialists. We are the most experienced in the mid-Willamette Valley and partner with families at every step of their baby’s journey. A dedicated nurse practitioner, respiratory therapist and registered nurse are on-site 24 hours a day, seven days a week to deliver intensive care to your baby. Every baby is assigned a neonatologist or nurse practitioner and neonatal nurse who provide consistent and compassionate care. Keeping your baby healthy and comfortable is our top priority.
Salem Health's NICU works as a family integrated care (FICare) environment. This model of care encourages you to care for your baby alongside our clinical staff. FICare gives parents the tools, education and support you need to confidently help with daily tasks like feeding, bathing and participating in medical rounds.
By involving you in the care team, FICare helps you bond, improves health, shortens hospital stays and prepares your family for a smooth transition home. We encourage your family to get to know your infant even in the early stages of care. Parents and siblings are welcome to visit as much as possible.
If your newborn needs neonatal intensive care, you are not alone. About 10% of all newborns need this specialty care. The most common reasons are: