Level IV NICU at Dell Children’s Medical Center
Doctors and critical care teams at Dell Children’s Medical Center at Ascension Seton deliver advanced care for even the smallest and most fragile young patients. As a Level IV neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), we provide the highest level of care for critically ill newborns and those born prematurely. Our experienced on-site neonatologists provide care 24/7. At Dell Children’s, your child and family are connected to the most pediatric specialists and specialty programs in Central Texas. From our NICU, we provide on-site consultation and care from every pediatric medical and surgical specialty. And your family is connected to advanced imaging and respiratory support. The care your child and family needs is here, close to home.
Dell Children's Medical Center is ranked among the nation's best Neonatology specialty programs by U.S. News & World Report in 2023-2024.
Our multidisciplinary care team takes the time to explain your child’s diagnosis and answer all your questions – big and small. We work with you and your child’s other specialists to create a care plan that’s right for your child and family. If your child needs surgery, have confidence knowing Dell Children’s Medical Center is one of the few hospitals in the nation that has a Level I Children’s Surgical Program designation from the American College of Surgeons. This means we deliver the highest level of surgical care for even the tiniest patients.
Advanced treatment and procedures
Multidisciplinary care team
Family-centered care for critically sick newborns
At Dell Children’s, our care teams provide a comfortable environment for your baby and family. And our NICU is designed to give each baby and family their own hospital room. Having private rooms can decrease stimulation and stress, and can help promote bonding between your baby and family. Your NICU care team keeps you and your family as involved in your child’s care. You are welcome to attend medical rounds and participate in your child’s neonatal care as much as possible. Web cameras are also used so you can securely view your baby 24/7 on your personal device.
Child life specialists are part of your child’s care team. These specialists support your family’s emotional health while your child is receiving care in the NICU. During some procedures, we may provide helpful distraction to your child. We also work with families to provide visual and sound stimulation for your baby, using pictures, artwork and voice recordings.
Supportive care, including care for emotional and spiritual health, is available to your family. Psychologists, social workers, chaplains and financial advisors are also part of your care team. Together, we deliver care that supports your family. Talk with your care team if you have questions or concerns. We can connect you with other care and services you may need.
Supporting your preferences for breast milk in the NICU
Breast milk is full of antibodies your baby needs to be healthy. And, it has essential nutrients for healthy growth and development. While in the NICU, we work closely with you to help make sure your baby receives your preferences for breast milk as a priority. But if your baby is born prematurely or your milk supply has been delayed, you may have the option for your baby to receive donor breast milk while they are in the NICU. Donor breast milk can provide the essential antibodies and nutrients your baby needs.