Media Release
Date: 6 December 2016
Bringing mum and baby closer together at the RUH
A new mum on Mary Ward using the technology to see
her baby remotely
The technology works very simply.
One computer tablet is positioned in front or next to the baby and a second is placed next to the mum's bed so she can view her baby.
Amanda Gell, Midwifery Matron, the RUH said:
"Listening to mums, who've been so disappointed that they've not been able to hold or see their baby after giving birth made us want to find a way for them to see their baby remotely. I'm delighted to see the idea become a reality.
"Although it's not quite the same as being together, using the tablets means that mums don't have to feel like they're missing out in those first few precious hours and days."
Lisa Bowen from Bath, who's the RUH's first patient to use the technology said:
"My baby boy Charlie was born by caesarean last week and as he had respiratory problems he was taken straight to NICU, so I didn't get to hold him. It all happened so quickly but my midwife was fantastic and she ensured I got to see Charlie using the tablet as soon as I was recovering from being in theatre.
"I can't put into words how it felt to see his little face on the tablet, it gave me the opportunity to bond with him and the tablet stayed with me until I was on the delivery ward. It's amazing, absolutely brilliant!"
Amanda continued:
"To hear Lisa's experience is just fantastic. Using this technology focuses on who is the priority – mum and baby and it really helps towards further improving the quality of care here at the RUH."