Keeping Moms and Babies Safe During the Pandemic
MCE welcomed over 900 newborns in 2020 and is prepared to deliver more this year
Enterprise, AL, March 26, 2021 – The delivery of babies has been a happy event for the labor and delivery team at Medical Center Enterprise over the past year. Hundreds of infants have taken their first breath at the hospital and been a welcome sight in the midst of the global pandemic.
While the virus has changed many things in the world – the hospital’s childbirth center and nursery are a pleasant constant, located in a separate, enclosed area to provide specialized care and services. A dedicated team of nurses and obstetricians work exclusively with the moms and babies through delivery and post-partum care.
“The joy of welcoming a new baby into the world is a wonderful thing. It is an honor to support the parents and babies who are counting on us,” said Dr. James Pollard, M.D., board certified in obstetrics and gynecology. “MCE Family Birth Center is a special place designated to keep them comfortable and safe, with experienced labor and delivery, nursery and post-partum nurses.”
Pre-natal care remains critical and women are encouraged to stay in contact with their obstetrician and keep their appointments to be sure their pregnancy is on track. And once baby is here, regular visits to the pediatrician are important to help them thrive.
The hospital and physician clinics keep the safety of their patients as the top priority. Many actions have been taken to enhance infection prevention and support social distancing to maintain a safe environment during the pandemic.
When an expectant mom arrives at the hospital, she goes to the main entrance where staff will check her temperature and complete a screening questionnaire. If she is scheduled for delivery, she will come in 2-3 days prior to delivery and have a COVID-19 test completed. If the expectant mom comes in laboring, once she is admitted, she will be tested for COVID-19. If she tests positive, her baby and 1 guest will room in with her throughout the duration of her stay, barring an emergent situation that requires an elevated level of care. Moms who are negative for COVID-19 may have two guests throughout the duration of her stay. Guests must be above the age of 18 and may leave as needed, but may not switch out with other family or friends.
“We are taking extra precautions for the safety of our patients,” said Cara Morris, director of women’s services. “Hundreds of moms have their babies here each year. We ensure that each family receives the professional, personalized care they need, and make sure that this time is as memorable as possible.”
Labor and delivery proceed as they always have and most adjacent procedures remain available. Tubal ligation after delivery is an option if a mother is negative for COVID-19 and circumcisions can also be performed. Breastfeeding is encouraged, even for moms who test positive for COVID-19 and can protect their infant by wearing a mask.
For more information about our Childbirth Preparation, Infant CPR and Newborn Care, Breastfeeding and Early Pregnancy classes call Aimee Williams, R.N., Lactation Consultant and OB Educator, at (334) 348-8828.
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