Quick Decisions and Expertise Bring Elyse into the World
Elyse is an active, easy-going girl who loves to sing, dance and play with her older sister. Thanks to the advanced care she received at St. Christopher's Hospital for Children she gives no thought to how life might have been.
Emergency Caesarean Section Keeps Mom and Baby Safe
Before Elyse was born, placental abruption cut off her life support in the womb. This is a dangerous condition where the placenta separates from the lining of the uterus. Elyse's father drove her mother to the emergency department, where doctors prepped her for an emergency caesarean section.
Critical Care Transportation Gives Elyse a Fighting Chance
Immediately after delivery, the Tower Health Critical Care Transport team took Elyse to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). In operation for more than 20 years, the transport team provides resuscitation, stabilization and interfacility transfers for kids of all ages. Patients who need critical medical or surgical care for conditions such as preterm birth, trauma, congenital (birth) conditions and burns get the immediate transfer to the critical care services they need.
The NICU team was standing by for Elyse’s arrival. In the intensive care unit, pediatric specialists used the cooling protocol, a treatment that lowered Elyse’s body temperature, slowing her metabolism and limiting tissue damage to her brain and vital organs.
Enjoying Home Life with Family
It took nearly a month in the NICU for Elyse to gain her strength and health. The day came when she returned home to her family. And although Elyse still needs ongoing care from the nephrology team, her future looks bright. She continues to grow in good health.