Our Patient and Families

Holden is a 37-bed NICU for newborns who require intensive medical and nursing care. Approximately 30% of the infants are transported in for care, while the remaining 70% are delivered in the high-risk delivery rooms. At least half of the infants are premature with some type of respiratory distress; about 25% have surgical problems such as TEF, cardiac disease, bowel obstruction, gastroschisis, omphalocele, etc.; and the remaining 25% have metabolic disorders such as infants of diabetic mothers, Rh isoimmunization, aminoacidurias, etc. Approximately 75% of the infants are ventilator-dependent. Many infants are referred to Holden from other Level III NICUs throughout the state for the very specialized treatments offered - ECMO, HFJV, surfactant replacement therapy, nitric oxide, liquid ventilation, and various other procedures.

Philosophy of Care

The Holden nursing team is a part of a quaternary neonatal center serving our region, state and beyond. We exist to provide quality nursing care to neonates from the acute phase of illness through recovery. We provide individualized support and education to families during hospitalization and in preparation for discharge. We empower families to participate in decision making for, and in the care of, their child. The Holden nursing team includes staff nurses, a clinical nurse specialist, a perinatal outreach coordinator, lactation consultants, and neonatal nurse practitioners.

Within the Holden NICU, we espouse a family-centered approach to care. Visiting is open 24-hours a day to whomever the parents wish to visit their infant, including siblings. Parents are encouraged to participate in care as soon as their infant's condition allows. A focus on growth and development is maintained for all infants.

Our Nursing Team

The state of Michigan is regionalized in order to provide high-quality perinatal care to all high-risk mothers and babies in the state. Our region covers a 75-mile radius area from Ann Arbor (excluding the Detroit area). The newborn transport team consists of a Holden nurse, a neonatal fellow or NNP, and a pediatric respiratory therapist. Modes of transport include ambulance, helicopter, and fixed wing.