Should I pre-register for admission to the hospital and how can I do this?
Everyone is encouraged to pre-register. You can do this by mailing in a pre-admission form. Click here to access the pre-registration form.
When should I call to register for Prenatal Classes?
You should call to register for classes before you are 25 weeks pregnant. Classes are ongoing and run for 6 weeks. You can check the BirthCare Center calendar of events on our Web site.
How will I know when to take Prenatal Classes?
It is recommended that you complete your classes by 36 weeks gestation. Our Parent Educator, Susan Bekken RNC, CLC, ICCE, will also be able to advise you of the appropriate time to take your prenatal classes. For more information, call 386.231.3152
What is covered in Prepared Parents Childbirth Class and is that the same as Lamaze Classes?
Prepared Parents Childbirth Class and Lamaze classes both cover anatomy, stages of labor, breathing and relaxation techniques, medical interventions, cesarean delivery, postpartum and recovery. Lamaze is a registered name for childbirth preparation classes.
How can I find out what classes are available and what is covered in each class?
There is a list and brief description of each class on our Web site.
Do I need to choose a pediatrician before I come to the hospital?
Yes! Choosing a pediatrician is an integral part of your maternity care.
Will I have a private room?
Yes! All of our rooms in the Birthcare Center at Florida Hospital Memorial Medical Center are private rooms.
May my family and I use our cell phones?
We encourage you to use your cell phones only in specified areas: family waiting rooms, the cafeteria and any sidewalk areas outside of the hospital.
May I eat while I am in labor?
Typically we do not allow you to have solid foods while you are in labor. You may have what we refer to as clear liquids: ice chips, popsicles, etc. on a limited basis.
Do you allow "rooming-in?"
Yes! To promote bonding with your newborn we encourage all of our parents to room-in with their baby. This also allows for you to get to know your baby in an environment where you have plenty of support. Please feel free to ask your nurse if you have any questions regarding the care of your baby.
Are we allowed to take pictures and video the birth of our newborn?
Video and still photography may be used after delivery. Your nurse will tell you when you may begin to photograph your newborn.
How many visitors are allowed in my room during labor and delivery?
The Birth Care Center and Mother Baby Unit welcomes families and friends to visit and will not restrict, limit or otherwise deny visitation privileges on the basis of race, color, relationship, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability.
What should I do if I am told that I need to receive Rhogam?
If you are RH negative, you will obtain a written order for Rhogam workup from you Obstetrician at approximately 28 weeks gestation. Take the order to the registration desk at Florida Hospital Memorial Medical Center. After completing your registration, you will go to the Laboratory where the lab tech will obtain a blood sample. From the Laboratory you will go to the Birthcare Center. A RN from the Birthcare Center will contact the lab, the Rhogam will be sent to the Birthcare Center when your lab tests are complete. The RN will administer the injection in your hip. A card with date and time of Rhogam administration will be given to you. The entire process may take up to 2-3 hours. If you have any vaginal bleeding during your pregnancy please notify your Obstetrician. You may need to have a repeated dose. Also, the Rhogam workup will be repeated after your delivery; depending on the blood type of your baby you may receive another dose of Rhogam after delivery.