Visiting the NICU Admission to the NICU Staff on the Unit First impressionsHow we care for your baby Neonatal surgery Parental involvement Coping and where to get help Family journeys Parental rights and responsibilities NICU jargon buster Frequently asked questions

All staff within the NHS has a legal duty to keep information about patients confidential. The duty of confidentiality owed to a person under 16 is as great as the duty owed to any other person. A breach of confidentiality constitutes gross misconduct and may result in that member of staff's dismissal, subject to the provisions of the practice's disciplinary procedure.

 

In order to give a baby the appropriate treatment, information about a baby and his/her parents will be shared amongst people involved in his/her care. Information is only passed on if there is a genuine need for it. We only provide essential information and anyone who receives this information is also under a legal duty to ensure that it remains confidential.

 

We will only pass on information to your relatives, friends and carers if you want us to.

 

As well as writing case notes about a baby, information will be stored on the computers in the unit. Staff will have access to this information and all recognise the importance of confidentiality. Staff can use the information in written and computerised notes to help them make decisions about a baby's care and to keep a record of all treatments, procedures and events.

 

Parents have a right to see their baby's records if they have legal parental responsibility. Because records contain a lot of complicated information, it is best for a member of staff to go over them with the parent.