AUSTIN, Texas — Having a baby can be a fun and exciting time for parents. However, for parents with a baby in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit it can be scary and challenging, especially when they can’t always be at their newborn’s bedside.

Now, families at Dell Children’s Medical Center of Central Texas can virtually connect with their newborn with new NicView cameras. NicView is a camera system that allows parents to watch their infant in the NICU in real time via a secure online portal, any time of the day or night.

“The cameras help parents, siblings and relatives bond with their newborn,” Sandra Cass, manager neonatal ICU, said. “Being able to connect, even when they can’t be there in person, helps reduce stress and anxiety often associated with being away from their baby.”

Yazmeeu Tuskan’s baby Leo has been in Dell Children’s NICU for two months. She says it’s been a very difficult time the family, but the camera above Leo’s crib provides peace of mind.  
     
“My husband and I can watch baby Leo at night when we’re at home, or even out having dinner. We still feel connected to him even when we’re not there,” Tuskan said. “Even my mother in Malaysia keeps a close watch on Leo. It’s a wonderful tool for families.”               
The hospital has installed 30 cameras in the NICU. The cameras do not transmit sound and do not record video. Only identified, credentialed users have access to the images.