Postpartum Frequently Asked Questions

Can my baby stay in my room at all times?
Yes. Our philosophy of Family-Centered Care supports the concept of mother and baby spending as much time together as possible. With your nurse to help you and answer your questions about your new baby, we feel this time spent together will provide an environment for you to learn about your newborn’s responses to his/her world and increase your confidence about caring for your newborn. There is a nursery open and available 24 hours a day if you should need it.

Can I spend the night with my partner?
All rooms have a bed for one adult to stay overnight. The bed is covered with a fabric spread when not in use during the day. We encourage partners to stay the night and participate in the nighttime care of their newborn whenever possible. Nighttime is a great opportunity to learn about newborn care and behavior.

Can my other children spend the night?
According to hospital policy, siblings and other children are not allowed to spend the night.

What are the visiting hours for this floor?
For current visiting hours, please go to www.nwh.org/visitors.

Is there a cost for parking?
There is a daily fee for parking in the Hospital Garage. Newton-Wellesley Hospital offers discounted multi-day parking passes for patients and visitors. Passes may be purchased at the Gift Shop and the Cashier’s Office, located just off the West Lobby or at any of the parking booths. A pass is $25.00 and provides unlimited parking for seven consecutive days.

Where can I find clean patient gowns and/or bedding?
There is a clean linen/patient gown cart located in the hallway. This is where your nurse will get clean gowns and/or bedding supplies for you.

Can I watch a movie in my room?
Yes. We have a TV and VCR that can be wheeled into your room. You may bring your own videos and we have a selection of educational videos as well. A movie channel guide and schedule are available in your room.

Where can I purchase a newspaper?
Papers can be purchased outside the main entrance of the hospital.

Does the Hospital have wireless Internet access?
Each patient room within the Maternity Department is equipped with wireless Internet access. This access is not available in the hallways, lobbies or other patient care areas.

Where is the gift shop?
Located on the first floor, The Newton-Wellesley Hospital Flower & Gift Shop offers a variety of gifts for patients of all ages. You can order flowers, teddy bears, candy, balloon bouquets, and other items that will put a smile on your loved one’s face. You can also purchase important toiletries in the gift shop such as Tylenol, lotion, and more. Gifts and flowers can be delivered to any room free of charge. To order, call 617-243-6079. All proceeds go to the Newton-Wellesley Hospital Auxiliary, which supports the growth of Newton-Wellesley Hospital. To view a selection of gifts and flowers available, please visit our website at www.nwh.org/gifts.

What will happen when we are discharged from the hospital?
When it is time to go home your physician or midwife will write your discharge orders. Your pediatrician will discharge your baby. Your nurse will explain these orders with you. Instructions will be given for at home care and for follow up care if needed. Once all orders and instructions have been described to you and all your questions have been answered, you must sign the discharge instructions sheet.

Are there pharmacies located near the hospital?
There are several pharmacy choices within a close proximity of the hospital. CVS Pharmacy: 999 Watertown Street, West Newton, 617-964-7736 Keyes Drug: 2090 Commonwealth Avenue, Auburndale, 617-244-2794 Osco Pharmacy: located inside Shaw’s Supermarket, 1070 Lexington Street, Waltham, 781-899-3332 Walgreens Pharmacy: 1101 Beacon Street, Newton Highlands, 617-332-6880

What dining services are available in the Hospital?
The Cafeteria is located on the second floor and is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 am to 8:00 pm. Weekend/holiday hours are 6:30 am to 6:30 pm. Weekly meal menus are located near the Cafeteria entrance. Charlie’s On The Way, located on the Shipley Way Bridge is a take-out operation providing coffee, fresh baked goods, upscale sandwiches and beverages. Charlie’s On The Way is open Monday through Friday from 6:00 am to midnight. Weekend hours are 6:00 pm to midnight. In addition, guest trays are available at a cost of $5. Call ext. 6198 on your room phone for this service. Guest trays will be delivered with your partner’s tray.

What’s in the Kitchen?
There are a variety of food and drink items for you and your family to enjoy during your stay. Please help yourself (at anytime) to any food items in the kitchen unless it is marked with someone else’s name and room number. There is a microwave oven and toaster in the kitchen for your use. If you would like to refrigerate or freeze any food items, please mark these items with your family’s name and room number. Foods available on the maternity unit include: crackers, graham crackers, Jell-O, Cheerios and other breakfast cereals, sherbet, bread, Popsicles, jelly, peanut butter, ketchup, mustard, butter, and sugar. Drinks available include: orange juice, white grape juice, water, ginger ale, cola, milk, coffee, and tea.

Is there nearby take-out food?
You are welcome to order out for lunch or dinner. Ask the unit coordinator or nurse for suggestions, numbers and/or menus for a variety of nearby eateries. If ordering food for delivery, tell the restaurant that you are at Newton-Wellesley Hospital, on 5th floor Maternity and specify your room number (the food will come to the floor). Tell your nurse or unit coordinator that you have ordered food for delivery.