Dear Editor

I wish to raise a concern regarding the current policy and conditions at Motootua Hospital’s Maternity Ward affecting mothers who have been discharged while their babies remain admitted in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

It has now been a week since our baby was admitted to the NICU, while my wife was discharged on the same day she delivered our son. I would like to begin by sincerely acknowledging and commending the doctors, nurses, and staff at both the Maternity Ward and N.I.C.U for their dedication and hard work. We are grateful for the care provided to our baby.

However, families have been consistently advised that once a mother is discharged, there is no need for a carer to remain with her, and that only the mother is permitted to stay. I respectfully urge the management of the Maternity Ward to reconsider this policy and address the following concerns.

Firstly, the area where mothers currently stay was originally a shared waiting area for Acute 7 and the Maternity Ward and continues to function as a public hallway. There is constant public movement through this space, while some mothers have their newborn babies sleeping with them overnight. This poses a serious health risk, as vulnerable infants are exposed to germs and bacteria from other wards. Restricting access or sealing this area would significantly improve safety and hygiene.

Secondly, the environment is extremely hot due to air conditioning units not functioning properly. Mothers who are still recovering, including those who have recently given birth or undergone surgery, are forced to remain in uncomfortable and overheated conditions. This situation is made worse for newborn babies, who are particularly sensitive to heat. Families are often advised by nurses to bring fans to help cope with the heat, which further highlights the seriousness of this issue.

Thirdly, the area is not secure. There have been reported cases of stolen property. Mothers are required to visit the NICU every two hours, leaving their belongings unattended. With limited security patrol during the day, allowing a family member to stay would help safeguard personal belongings and provide reassurance.

Fourthly, although mothers are officially discharged, many are still physically weak and in recovery. Hospitals do not provide all daily necessities, and mothers often require assistance obtaining food, medication, or other essential items. These are responsibilities that can only realistically be fulfilled by husbands or close family members.

Lastly, some mothers have undergone Caesarean sections and are discharged with instructions to apply prescribed medication to the surgical areas. This form of personal and private care can only reasonably be provided by a husband or an immediate family member.

For these reasons, I humbly ask the management of the Maternity Ward to reconsider the current policy and allow a carer or immediate family member to stay with mothers whose babies remain admitted in the NICU, while also urgently addressing the environmental conditions within the ward.

This concern is raised with respect, appreciation for our healthcare workers, and with the well-being of mothers and newborn babies at heart.

Yours sincerely,
Roy Ah Sang