Level II specialty care nursery 

Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula’s eight-bed level II specialty care nursery is located inside the Family Birth Center. Feel peace of mind knowing our nursery has the technology and trained staff to provide care to newborn babies who: 

• Are born too early (preterm), as early as 32 weeks of pregnancy 

• Have a low birth weight 

• Need certain treatments, such as intravenous therapy, antibiotics, or breathing support 

If your baby is born earlier than 32 weeks, is critically ill, or needs surgery or other treatments, our level II specialty care nursery will: 

• Provide emergency treatment to stabilize your child 

• Facilitate transfer to a nursery that offers a more intensive level of care 

Your baby’s care team 

Your baby will be the focus of our doctors, including neonatologists who specialize in caring for critically ill newborn babies. Our nursery partners with University of California San Francisco Benioff Children’s Hospital, whose team of neonatologists oversee the treatment of our level II specialty care nursery patients around the clock.  

Your baby’s neonatologist may work with other specialists as needed in a multidisciplinary team. The team may include: 

• Clinical dietitians 

• Lactation consultants 

• Pediatricians 

• Pharmacists 

• Respiratory therapists 

• Social workers 

To make sure babies receive the best care, our multidisciplinary team meets weekly to create and update care plans for all babies admitted to the level II specialty care nursery. 

Can I stay with or visit my baby? 

You are welcome to spend as much time as you want with your baby in the level II specialty care nursery. Knowing your baby is near your home in the Monterey area can bring peace of mind during a stressful time. The nursery staff will do everything possible to minimize any time you and your baby spend apart. 

If your baby needs additional care in the level II specialty care nursery after you’re discharged from the hospital, you may stay in a parent boarder room if one is available. 

How long will my baby stay in the nursery? 

You’ll receive daily updates about your baby’s progress and readiness to go home from a neonatologist and the rest of the nursery team. 

Family-centered approach 

During your baby’s stay in the level II specialty care nursery, doctors and nursing staff will keep you informed by: 

• Communicating with you frequently about your baby’s care plan 

• Listening and answering your questions 

• Providing education about your baby’s condition and treatments 

• Making referrals and providing resources as needed 

When it’s time to go home 

Before your baby leaves the hospital, you’ll receive education on caring for your newborn at home. We’ll make follow-up appointments with your pediatrician, lactation consultant, and any other specialists as needed and provide all the details to you at the time of discharge.