Medcenter One - Well Baby Clinic

Overview

Recognizing that new parents have numerous questions during the baby’s first year, Medcenter One began offering a free Well Baby Clinic for new parents in the community about 10 years ago. Parents are welcome to stop by with their babies (birth to one year) during the clinic’s weekly hours. A registered nurse weighs and measures the babies and answers any questions parents may have. A lactation counselor is available, and a physical therapist comes in once a month to provide free screenings. When developmental issues are noted, clinic staff refers parents to the appropriate department, such as physical therapy, for consultation and treatment.

Clinic staff also provides pediatric-related pamphlets, flyers and articles. Local businesses donate samples for distribution, such as formula, lotion, diaper creams and breastfeeding supplies. The Well Baby Clinic provides an opportunity for new parents to gain educational experience that will benefit not only their babies but also the whole family. It also provides a venue for meeting other families with babies.

Impact

Approximately 30 parents bring their babies to the clinic each week. Developmental issues are caught early, contributing to infant health and well-being. Breastfeeding issues are resolved, jaundice symptoms are monitored, and parents feel relief and reassurance with the knowledge they acquire.

Challenges/success factors

The clinic currently is open only two hours a week, plus two evening hours once a month. On some days, more than 40 families seek clinic services, making it difficult to allot adequate time to each family.

Future direction/sustainability

In 2008, a second registered nurse was added to handle patient load. Clinic leaders are now looking into adding days and/or hours to clinic availability to ensure that every family that comes has adequate time for questions and concerns.

Advice to others

Be prepared to answer a wide variety of questions that parents have during a baby’s first year. Topics range from umbilical-cord healing to eating solid foods and using a cup.

Contact: Lori Bergquist, RN, CLC
Birthcenter One Follow-Up Coordinator
Telephone: 701-323-6596
E-mail: lbergquist@mohs.org