What to bring
For labour and delivery
Bring anything you like to make yourself comfortable during labour your favourite pillow, music, oils, a TENS machine. You and your partner/support person will have access to refreshments, but are welcome to bring your own if you wish.
For Mothers
- Antenatal pregnancy record
- All current medication
- Camera
- Mobile phone and charger
- Loose comfortable clothing for labour
- Casual wear for your stay in hospital (daytime, night time and breastfeeding friendly)
- Extra bag or two for transporting extra’s home
- Comfortable footwear and slippers
- Hair care products – hair ties, hair clips brush etc
- Anything that helps you relax e.g. Music, massage oils,magazines, a book – create some music playlists!
- Medicare card
- Comfortable pyjamas
- Notepaper and pen
- Nursing supplies – maternity bra’s if choosing to breastfeed
- Pillow – bring your own pillow into hospital with a special pillow case (we supply hospital pillows)
- Toiletries – deodorant, shampoo, body wash etc.
- Toothpaste and toothbrush for you and your support person
- Maternity pads (3-4 packs should be sufficient) and comfortable underwear. Allow for two pairs per day
- Watch.
For Baby
- Baby clothes
- Baby wraps
- Car seat installed in car for travel home
- We get you started with nappies and wipes, please bring additional supply.
- If you are planning on bottle feeding your baby bring formula, bottles and teats
For Birth Partner
Labour
- Directions to the hospital
- Comfortable, practical footwear (closed in footwear in case transferred to theatre)
- Change of clothes and pyjamas
- A copy of the birth plan or maternity notes
- Contact lists
- Phone and charger
- To-do list
Ask expectant mum if there’s anything she would like you to do during labour i.e. take photos or video, play music, things to talk about, assistance with pain relief)
What not to bring
- Hot water bottles
- Wheat heat packs (we can provide a heat pack if needed)
- Candles with naked flames
TIP: Create a to-do list for your birth partner to action when you go into labour ie: call labour ward, lock up house, organise pets and pack/check off any last minute items.
Parking
If you need to park quickly on your delivery day, there is an emergency drop off zone at the front of Newcastle Private Hospital Delivery Suite ‘Croudace Building’. Veer left as you approach. You can park there and move it later but please let the hospital staff know.
If you have more time, please park under the Newcastle Private Hospital ‘Kingston Building’ – veer right as you approach. Let the hospital staff know as there may be a discount for longer stay parking.
Baby’s ID
Babies are identified with two bands, placed around the wrist or ankle immediately after birth. Please don’t remove these in hospital as these are required for security purposes. Please inform staff if name tags fall off or need replacing.
Newborn screening test
This test is performed with your consent on all babies born in Australia between two and three days old.. The procedure involves pricking your baby’s heel with a special needle and collecting a few drops of blood onto a screening card. The test detects metabolic disorders that, unless treated, can affect your baby’s development. We’ll give you a brochure before the test is completed and make sure you understand and give consent to this test.
Hearing test
The New South Wales Statewide Infant Screening Hearing (SWISH) program is offered to all babies. The test is offered in the first couple of days after birth and takes about 10–20 minutes to complete.
Lactation consultant
We have a lactation consultant available to you throughout your stay with us to give advice about feeding your baby and to support you through the whole process. First time mums or mums who would appreciate a refresh – we’re here to help.
Cots
Cots are provided to transport your baby safely around the unit.
Blue Book
After the birth of your baby we’ll give you a Blue Book that needs to stay with baby during your hospital stay so we can complete medical records before you’re discharged. We’ll record your baby’s growth, development, medical history and immunisations in the Blue Book. Take this with you to all of your baby’s future health appointments.
Birth registration
During your stay, we’ll give you the forms you need to register the birth of your baby and claim maternity allowance. It’s essential you take these home with you as they cannot be redistributed. You have 60 days to register your baby’s birth at www.bdm.nsw.gov.au
Personalised care board
We use a personalised care board in your room, as another way to keep you and your family involved in your care. This is updated regularly by our health professionals with information about your care. Please use it to jot down reminders and questions to ask your doctor or midwife.
Food
Our catering team takes pride in making sure you have delicious meals and snacks throughout your stay with us. It is important that you feel well-nourished and pampered.
Servicing your room
We aim for high standards in terms of cleanliness of your room. If you need towels changed, additional toiletries or the room cleaned, just let us know.
Hospital amenities
There are two cafes at the hospital, two vending machines and an ATM on the ground floor of the Kingston building.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is available throughout the hospital.