What Every Parent Should Know

The birth of a new baby is a joyous occasion and we share your excitement in this great celebration. Although we have never had an infant abducted from California Pacific Medical Center, it is our responsibility to inform you about the regrettable risk of infant abduction from hospitals and birthing centers.

Our staff shares with you the responsibility of protecting your infant, and understands that an educated and watchful parent is the best line of defense in infant security.

Here are some guidelines you should review before your admittance to the hospital. A comprehensive infant security program is in place at California Pacific which your nurse will review with you once you have been admitted.

1. Become familiar with the hospital staff who work on the unit and in the nursery, and know the nurse assigned to you and your baby.

2. Question unfamiliar persons entering your room or inquiring about your baby even if they are in hospital attire. Alert the nurses station immediately.

3. NEVER give your baby to anyone without official, verifiable hospital identification, and question anyone who attempts to carry your baby out of your room.

4. Determine where your baby will be taken for tests and how long the tests will take. Find out who has authorized the tests.

5. NEVER leave your baby alone in your room.

6. When your baby is in your room, keep the bassinet beside your bed, on the side furthest from the door.

7. Don't hesitate to ask the staff about any security questions you may have.

8. Please help us by educating your family and friends about infant security issues. While our policies are not meant to inconvenience your family or friends in any way, please abide by the rules and adhere to established visiting hours.

Many parents prefer to keep their babies in their rooms while in the hospital. Many mothers tell us that they rest and sleep more comfortably when their babies are close by them. If you are having trouble settling your baby, your nurse will be happy to help you. Her suggestions will be very helpful after you've taken your baby home. If there is a time while you are in the hospital when you would like the nurses to care for your infant in our Well Baby Nursery, please let your nurse know.

It is a good idea to find out as soon as possible what the policies are regarding family and friends visiting while you are in labor and during your postpartum stay. Please understand that these types of policies are not meant to inconvenience your family or friends in any way. They are in place largely as a matter of infant security so please abide by the facility's visitors' policy.

After you leave the hospital, the following guidelines are recommended:
1. Do not place a birth announcement in the newspaper.
2. Do not give out your address or telephone number to strangers.
3. Do not put a sign announcing the baby's birth on the front lawn.
4. Never leave the baby unattended.
5. Do not let new acquaintances into your place of living.

If you are interested in more information, you can contact the National Bureau of Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-The Lost (1-800-843-5678) or look up their Web Site, www.ncmec.org.