During your stay

standing woman holding newborn baby

In the Mother/Baby Care Unit at CMH, you will stay in a private room with a private bathroom and shower, a flat-screen TV, Entertainment Center, free Wi-Fi, and phone. There will also be a rocking chair and a pull-out bed for your partner or support person. Your nurse will help you get comfortable caring for your newborn, and support you through umbilical cord care, diapering, bathing, swaddling, and breastfeeding.

Please understand that our visitor policy may change depending on the prevalence of COVID-19 in different regions of the U.S. For up-to-date visitor information, please visit our Getting care during the COVID-19 outbreak page, select your region, and scroll to the "Changes to our visitor policy" section.

Meals and snacks

Meals and snacks are provided during your stay. Your family and friends are welcome to visit our cafeteria.

Rooming in

Research shows that babies who stay in the same room as their mothers adjust better, and new moms rest and recover better. We keep your baby with you as much as possible throughout your stay, so you can bond and learn to recognize your baby’s needs.

Hand-washing

As your new baby’s immune system develops, hand-washing is an important way to prevent infection. Protect your newborn by asking visitors to wash their hands before touching your baby. If anyone is sick — even mildly — ask them not to visit until they are feeling better.

Newborn photos

A photographer is available to take photos of your baby. Ask your nurse for more information.

Newborn security

Your baby’s security is important to us. Never leave your baby unattended. If you need to be away from your baby for any reason, let your nurse know so we can make sure your little one is safely cared for.

Your baby will be able stay with you in your room unless there is a medical reason for your newborn to be in the NICU.

All Community Memorial Hospital and Kaiser Permanente employees wear badges with their name, title, and photograph. Only allow authorized staff to take your baby from your room for any reason.

If you’re ever uncomfortable with the person who is asking to take your baby from you, use your nurse call button to ask for an additional staff member to confirm the request.

Newborn screenings

All newborns undergo painless cardiac and hearing screening tests. The hearing test is performed by a newborn hearing screening technician and the cardiac test, which looks at your baby’s heart health, will be performed by your nurse. These tests will be done in the postpartum unit before you go home.

Breastfeeding

Breast milk is nature’s perfect first food, and breastfeeding can enhance the bond between you and your baby. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months and continued breastfeeding through the first year of life.

Lactation consultants & supplies

If you need additional support, a lactation consultant will come to help you while you’re in the hospital. Lactation consultants are also available after you go home. CMH has International Board Certified Lactation Consultants on staff and offers the following:

  • Breast pumps for sale or rent

  • Breast pump replacement parts

  • Breastfeeding supplies

  • Breastfeeding bras

Breastfeeding support group

Research shows that women breastfeed longer when they have group support, and CMH offers this support for Kaiser Permanente members. Led by a registered nurse and certified lactation counselor, you may ask questions, share advice, or just listen in a relaxed and welcoming environment. The group is drop-in format and is free of charge. Join us for coffee, tea, snacks, and support.

Breastfeeding support group

Date:         Thursday mornings
Time:         10-11:30a.m
Location:  2580 E. Main St., Suite 101
                   Map
Phone:       805/667-2838
Email:         newparentresourcecenter@cmhshealth.org

Date:         Wednesdays
Time:         1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location:   2580 E. Main St., Suite 101
                   Map
Contact:    New Parent Resource Center
Phone:      805/658-BABY (2229)
Time:         10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Secure checkout

When you’re ready to leave, your support person should bring the car up to the front of the hospital, a staff member will wheel you and your baby downstairs after you’ve gone through our secure checkout.

Car seat

California law requires that you take your baby home in a car seat. Our staff is not licensed to assist or direct you with car seat usage or installation, so we encourage you to take our “Infant Safety and CPR” program before your baby is born. It also helps to have your car seat installed a few weeks before your baby is due.

Car seat installation resources

Always read and follow the car seat instructions, as well as your vehicle seat belt instructions. You can find guidelines for safe car seat installation online. You can also call 1-866-SEAT-CHECK (1-866-732-8243), or go to seatcheck.org to find a seat-inspection location certified by the National Transportation Safety Board.