Onslow Memo­r­i­al Hos­pi­tal Announces Spe­cial Care Nursery

JACKSONVILLE, NC – August 19, 2024- Onslow Memorial Hospital has announced the reopening of its Special Care Nursery (SCN), designed to provide exceptional care for infants requiring additional support. This significant enhancement reflects the ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality, compassionate care to newborns and their families.

The Special Care Nursery officially reopened on July 9, 2024, and allows for the seamless transition of infants who require specialized care. Newborns who initially required an advanced level of care at another facility, can now return to Onslow Memorial Hospital for continued care, ensuring continuity and familiarity in their treatment.

“Our collaboration with UNC Pediatrics and UNC Neonatology enriches our care model, bringing together the expertise of renowned specialists and providing our patients with an enhanced level of support as necessary,” said Rose Morgan, Chief Nursing Officer at Onslow Memorial Hospital. “This partnership ensures that our team of neonatal nurse practitioners (NNPs) is well-equipped and supported. With 24-hour coverage and direct access to UNC physicians, our skilled NNPs are prepared to handle various neonatal needs.”

This SCN supports families such as the Andrew family. Baby Girl Andrew was the first patient admitted to the Special Care Nursery after reopening. She was born at another hospital but was able to be transferred to Onslow Memorial Hospital to receive care closer to home.

“Baby Girl Andrew’s story underscores our mission to provide excellent care and to reunite families during critical times," said Barbara Brandon, Maternal Child Director. “Creating an opportunity to continue care close to home and reunite families reflects our commitment to medical excellence and compassionate care.”

SCNs are different from neonatal intensive care units (NICU). SCNs provide a level of specialized care, but they are not equipped to serve babies who are critically ill. SCNs can care for babies with health issues such as jaundice, low blood sugar, and low birth weight and those who may have improved in the NICU but are not yet ready to go home.