When It's Time

We are very pleased that you have chosen a Baptist Health System hospital for your baby’s birth.  We want you to feel prepared. Here are some suggestions for things you may want to do prior to delivery.

Pre-register
We highly encourage you to pre-register for the birth of your baby as soon as possible. By completing the required paperwork ahead of time, you will have one less thing to worry about when your big day arrives. Please remember that you will still need to complete some paperwork in person at the hospital's Admissions Department.

Pack a bag.
Include items needed for labor and take a separate bag for you and your baby’s hospital stay following delivery.

Purchase your baby’s car seat. 
Even more important, remove it from it’s box and read the instructions. Learn to adjust all straps so you will know how to place baby in the seat securely. It may help to practice with a doll or stuffed animal.  Also, practice securing the car seat in the car with the seat belt. The car seat should face backwards in the rear automobile seat. Your baby should ride in the car seat every time you travel in the car.  Remember, it is the law.

Choose a Pediatrician or Family Practice doctor for your baby. 
If the physician you choose does not come to this hospital, check your insurance company’s provider list and select a “substitute” doctor who will see your baby before hospital discharge.

Make a “practice run” to the Hospital
Find out how long it takes to get to the hospital in traffic and plan an alternate route for emergency situations (heavy traffic due to an accident, closed roadways due to weather, etc.).

Keep gas tanks at least ¼ full.

Shop ahead for easy to prepare meals for after you are home with your baby.

Explore childcare options if you plan to return to work after your baby is born.

Discuss with your obstetrician or midwife whether you are to call prior to coming to the hospital.