Expansion Brings New
Life to the Family BirthPlace

There is a new arrival at Manatee Memorial Hospital -- the bigger, brighter and beautiful Family BirthPlace.

The expanded Family BirthPlace features additional beds, more privacy and space and a family gathering area.

An extensive, six-month renovation project added two labor beds and seven postpartum beds, bringing the totals to 14 and 17, respectively. The labor and postpartum areas are now separate, providing more privacy and space for mothers-to-be and new mothers. Additionally, the postpartum unit includes a family area where patients and families may visit. The nursing station also was expanded.

"The BirthPlace is much more spacious and filled with natural light," says Debbie Mann, RN, Director of Women's Services. "We've added many decorative touches -- including soft pastel colors and artwork -- to help make it a peaceful, relaxed place."

The Family BirthPlace has been welcoming mothers and new babies since 1953. It is staffed with more than 50 labor and delivery nurses, some of whom have 20 or more years of experience. A woman in labor is cared for by the same nurse during a 12-hour shift, providing an extra measure of continuity and support.

NICU Care for Babies Who Need It Most
Manatee Memorial Hospital has Manatee County's only Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), staffed with specially trained nurses and two neonatologists (physicians with advanced training in the care of newborns).

"We hope that all babies are born healthy," says Debbie Polis, RN, Nurse Manager of the Family BirthPlace. "But it's nice to know that if they need special care -- due to prematurity, respiratory difficulties or other complications -- often we can treat them right here, without having to transfer them to another hospital."

Manatee County's
Only Level II NICU
What Is a Level II NICU?
A Level II NICU offers more intensive care than a Level I NICU. Generally, a Level II NICU provides care for newborns with slight potential for risks during deliveries. Physicians, nurses and other staff members specially trained in the care of newborns also care for babies who are born at or after 32 weeks gestation or babies weighing 3 pounds 5 ounces or more.

Debbie Mann, RN Director of Women's Services Family BirthPlace

Debbie Polis, RN Nurse Manager Family BirthPlace

206 Second Street East, Bradenton, FL 34208 941-746-5111 FAX: 941-745-6862