Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) celebrates reunion at Lakeside Hospital for women and children

The sounds of music and children’s laughter recently filled the halls of Lakeside Hospital for Women and Children during its annual Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) reunion.

The spring-inspired soiree brought together former patients, their families and Tulane’s team of NICU caregivers to celebrate the health of children who relied on Lakeside Hospital for Women and Children’s Level III Regional NICU for specialized care after birth.

“It is incredibly rewarding to reconnect with the families and children we have cared for,” said Crystal Maise-Dykes, RN, clinical supervisor of the Tulane Lakeside NICU. “Seeing these once tiny, sick patients grow into happy, healthy children inspires us to do all that we can do for each and every patient entrusted to our care.”

The party included photos with the Easter Bunny and a picture frame-decorating station. Tulane’s Arts in Medicine Program set up a live music area for children to dance while banging drums and shaking tambourines. The event also featured the Audubon Institute’s Zoomobile, face painting, snowballs, and games for children of every age.

“As caregivers, this is such a special day for us,” said Maise-Dykes. “We are ready to start planning next year’s reunion!”

Tulane Lakeside for Women and Children provides quality, family integrated care in a nurturing setting. Tulane Lakeside is the only facility in Louisiana to be named a 2016 Top Teaching Hospital by the Leapfrog Group, and it is an accredited Baby-Friendly hospital and a designated G.I.F.T. (Guided Infant Feeding Techniques) birthing facility.