Miller-Dwan Medical Center

Duluth, MN  55805

Approved Policy and Procedure

Date In Effect

Scope

Issue Number

File Reference

7/2000

Nursing

1

S

Authored By:

Date:

Approved By:

Date:

H. Presuhn RNC

7/2000

K. Blomstrand RN

7/2000

 

 

 

 

Subject:

Safe Place for Newborns

 

I.   EXPECTED OUTCOME

 

Newborns are received by MDMC and referred to the appropriate Social Service agency.

 

II.  POLICY

    

Any newborn may be left with a hospital employee on MDMC premises provided that:

 

Child is less than 72 hours old

            Child is unharmed

 

III. RESPONSIBILITY OF MDMC STAFF

 

A.   Monday through Friday, any available Nursing Director assumes control of the infant.  During other times, the Nursing Supervisor assumes that function.

 

B.   The employee receiving the child immediately notifies the Operator who in turn notifies the appropriate individual (as described above in A) to take charge of the situation.  The individual surrendering the child is asked to remain with the child until physical custody is assumed by the appropriate administrative individual or representative.

 

C.   The individual receiving the child may make the following inquiries:

 

     1.   Date and time of birth

     2.   Medical information

           3.   Any other pertinent information the individual leaving the

                infant may volunteer

           4.   If the individual leaving the infant is not the mother, does     he/she have permission to leave the infant?

           5.   No identifying information such as names may be requested.

 

     

 

D.   The administrative representative then notifies St. Louis County Social Services Department, Initial Intervention Unit @ 726-2012 when available.  Social Services personnel are available Monday to Friday until 2100, on weekends and Holiday from 830 until 1600.  The Police Department is called at all other times. 

 



Reviewed:

Revised:

 

 

 

 

Nursing P&P:  Safe Place for Newborns