Our Services
Obstetrics/Birthing Services
Birthing Services
Checking in-to
the Hospital
The time has arrived and you begin to go into labor! Everything is set into motion. When labor begins you should call the hospital and ask to talk to the OB nurse. She will ask you questions such as the frequency and severity of your contractions. If she determines that it is time for you to come to the hospital, you'll check in at the Admissions desk and then be transferred to the OB department. The OB nurse will access your progress and notify your physician that you have been admitted to the hospital.
Your progress through labor and the health of you and your baby will be monitored throughout your labor. You should have already discussed with your physician your childbirth and pain-control options and preferences. Each labor and delivery is different and we work with you to make your delivery special and unique to your needs and desires.
Pain-Control Options
When it comes to using pain-control options in childbirth, most women fall into one of three categories. Those who are certain they will want pain relief, those who are unsure of their pain relief options and how these options will affect their labor and delivery; and those who would prefer to give birth without any pain relief. No matter which category you fall into it is important for you to know how anesthesia and pain relief is used in labor and delivery. No two women experience childbirth in quite the same way, so it is important to know your options and discuss them with your physician.
There are many options for pain-control at Palo Alto County Hospital including local anesthesia, narcotics or tranquilizers, intrathecal injections, and spinals. How you and your baby will be effected by each choice is something you should discuss with your physician or anesthetist.
After Delivery
Immediately following the actual birth, your baby will stay with you in the delivery room for those first exciting introductions. And prior to returning to your room, your baby will get its first check-up and bath. This is a special time for you and your family as bonding begins with your new family member. The staff will help you with this important process.
After delivery, the OB staff gives you the option of keeping your baby with you in your room or having the baby cared for by the staff in the nursery while you rest. Either way, you and your baby's health and wellness will be monitored throughout your stay.
Each private OB room is equipped with TV/VCR's so you can watch teaching videos on the care of your new baby. One-on-one teaching is provided by the OB staff in the privacy of your own room. The teaching consists of a newborn baby bath demonstration, showing proper handling and care of a newborn, as well as information on safety, health and wellness, and understanding your infants developmental needs. You will receive written material on the care of a newborn as well as information on changes you may experience as a new mom.
In celebration of your baby's birth, a special meal is served to you and a guest, compliments of Palo Alto County Hospital. This meal is served in the privacy of your own room. A first baby picture is taken, sponsored by Iowa Trust & Savings Bank.
When you are ready to go home, you will need an infant car seat for the safety of your baby. If you do not bring your own, a rental car seat is available from the OB department.
Newborn Hearing Tests
All infants born at Palo Alto County Hospital have their hearing tested at 24-36 hours of age. A newborn hearing test is important so children with hearing problems can be helped before speech and development are impaired. Test results are passed on the Area Education Agency who can perform future testing when needed.