Babies don’t wait

As the world shifted over the past couple months and Bartlett Regional Hospital answered the call to slow or shut down, such thing was not an option for obstetrics. “Expecting families are usually already nervous, anxious and likely have some fears regarding delivery; and all of these have been exacerbated widely with COVID-19,” said OB Director Lauren Beason.

“We are very fortunate in Juneau to have a unified birth community able to offer various birthing options. There are a host of considerations families think about when deciding on a birth location, and COVID-19 shouldn’t be a primary deciding factor.”

Bartlett Beginnings was among the first departments to implement strict visitor policies and protocols. In March and (to date) April, 42 brand new humans were welcomed to the world in the unit.

“At BRH we have comprehensive surge plans should they be needed, and they do not include scaling back our ability to provide excellent specialty care for mothers and their newborns,” notes Beason. “We have evolving protocols and procedures to ensure all patients and caregivers are protected and kept safe. Ensuring our patient population is safe and healthy is always at the forefront.”

In addition, Bartlett Beginnings is utilizing technology to keep safe whenever possible. Outpatient lactation appointments are conducted primarily via Zoom, allowing those infants who are more stable to stay at home. Those with increased needs and clinical evaluation will still be seen in person. All perinatal classes are held via Zoom, Dad’s class to Birth Preparation Class. Patients can still visit the unit and ask questions prior to their arrival via video tour.