MercyOne Waterloo Integrated Neonatal Intensive Care (INIC)

Having a baby is one of the most important moments of a parent's life, and while it is always the hope that the pregnancy, labor and birth go as planned, there are instances where babies need advanced care. MercyOne's unique and top-rated Integrated Neonatal Intensive Care (INIC) model allows babies to be cared for by our team of neonatologists, nurses and specialists while staying in the same room as their moms.

Each of MercyOne's 19 labor, delivery, recovery and postpartum birthing suites are equipped with the technology and support necessary should your baby need intensive care. This family-centered approach allows for families to stay together rather than separating mom and baby in a more traditional Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) setting.

There are many benefits to this family-centered approach, including more skin-to-skin time for mom and baby and increased breastfeeding success rates. The first few minutes, hours and days are essential for bonding with a new baby, and the INIC model allows for that even when a baby needs advanced care.

High Risk Infant Follow-up Care

Our High-Risk Infant Follow-up Care program continues to monitor babies after they leave our NICU. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your baby will receive periodic check-ups to monitor their growth and identify any developmental or special health needs. The program offers:

• Care by a MercyOne neonatologist to supplement care from your child's primary care provider.
• A physical exam and developmental testing at appointments scheduled between chronological ages 4-6 months, 9-12 months and 18-24 months.  
• Behavioral and autism screening and a more in-depth assessment by a physical therapist at 9-12 month and 18-24 month visits. An assessment of cognitive, language and gross and fine motor skills will be completed by a physical therapist between 9-12 months and 18-24 months.

An opportunity for you to share any concerns or questions you may have.

Early intervention for a delay in growth or development is important so your child can be referred for additional services if needed.