Our Approach
New RSV Protocols
After a statewide alert from the Texas Department of State Health Services and an increase in cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) locally, CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System officials have updated visitation practices for the Women’s and Children’s areas of its hospitals. No visitors under the age of 18 will be allowed in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, the Mother/Baby Unit, or the Labor and Delivery Unit.
The safety of our patients is our top priority, and the restriction will remain in place until RSV cases decrease and it is deemed appropriate to return to normal visitation practices.
Thank you for your support in providing a safe environment for our patients.
As your healthcare partner, CHRISTUS St. Michael wants to assure you that we are fully equipped to provide safe, quality care to our community. We are here for you today and for a healthier tomorrow. We are ready!
A Powerful Bond
CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System takes a family-centered care approach to our obstetrical and neonatal services. Our highly skilled nurses and physicians come to you to provide care. Your baby will be able to stay with you from birth through discharge, allowing you both more time for bonding, rest, and uninterrupted breastfeeding. If your baby should need special care and equipment, we offer a newborn care area, Continuing Care Unit, and a Level III NICU.
We minimize maternal-infant separation in accordance with American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines. Your baby stays in your hospital room, even at night. We encourage you to have a designated helper to stay with you in the hospital and after you go home. Having a baby and adjusting to the demands of a newborn is tiring, and it is always good to have someone ready to take over to allow you some rest. Make sure you discuss any needs with your nurse prior to discharge so we can assist you.
The Mother-Baby Unit offers private family space for bonding after delivery. You and your baby are cared for together with one nurse caring for the “couplet.” Mothers can continue skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding, and receive support from staff. Families have the opportunity to ask questions to learn about the care of their newborn so they truly feel prepared when they go home. Newborn care — including initial baths and exams by the physician is done in the mother-baby room. Other medically indicated procedures such as circumcisions will be done in the newborn care area. All rooms are single and have private bathrooms. Couches and chairs transform into sleeping spaces for family and visitors.