First NICU Visit Checklist: Packing, Questions and Family Support

Practical NICU checklist for parents. Your first visits may involve new routines, people and paperwork. This page helps you prepare questions and organize the day. It does not explain or recommend medical procedures; your baby’s NICU team can answer clinical questions.

Before leaving home

• Check hospital visiting policies and directions
• Pack phone, charging cable, identification and any required paperwork
• Bring a small notebook or notes app
• Keep a list of contact numbers for the hospital and family
• Prepare basic food, water and transport plans for the adult caregiver

When you arrive

• Ask where to sign in and where visitors may wait
• Ask where to store personal belongings
• Confirm how hospital staff prefer families to communicate
• Ask where you can find a social worker or parent-support contact
• Request an explanation of any unfamiliar word you hear

Questions you can bring to the care team

• Who is our main contact today?
• When are family updates usually shared?
• How can we take part in discussions and planning?
• Is there any information we should write down or bring to the next visit?
• What are the next practical steps for our family?

Supporting yourself during visits

NICU schedules can be tiring. Accept practical help with meals, travel, childcare or errands. Some parents find it useful to plan short breaks, keep one trusted person updated, and make time to eat and rest. Every family’s capacity and circumstances are different.

Questions to ask about eventual homecoming

• What paperwork and follow-up appointments should we expect?
• Will we receive written discharge instructions?
• Whom should we call if we have questions after discharge?
• Are there any supplies the hospital will ask us to obtain?

Printable-style daily notes

Date: __________ Staff contact: __________

Three questions: 1. __________ 2. __________ 3. __________

Practical follow-up: __________

This checklist is about logistics, parent support and communication. Only qualified clinicians should provide medical advice for your baby.