Each year, more than 650 critically ill infants come to the Dana Brown Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at SSM Cardinal Glennon by ambulance, helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft.

They arrive with the help of our Transport Team—a group of highly skilled professionals that provide essential medical care while babies are in transit.

The team is made up of registered nurses and respiratory therapists with advanced training in the stabilization, treatment and transport of small infants. An attending physician may also accompany the Transport Team during a trip.

The Transport Team serves many hospitals throughout the region. They are readily available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Most new moms are not able to travel with their babies right away after they are born. A baby's first helicopter or ambulance ride to the NICU can be worrisome for Mom.

SSM Cardinal Glennon transport blankies provide a comforting touch during this time.

Here's how the blankies work:

Mom holds the "transport blankie" to her chest, where is absorbs her warmth and unique scent. Then, the blankie is tucked in with her child during the helicopter flight or ambulance ride.

Babies recognize their mother's scent, which helps soothe them. Mom and Baby have a chance to bond, even though they're not together.

Moms tell us that having the blankie travel with their babies makes the separation less scary and more calming for them as well.

SSM Cardinal Glennon established St. Louis' first Neonatal Transport Team in 1979. Today, we continue to provide this region-wide service in bringing more than 650 critically ill infants to safety at SSM Cardinal Glennon.

Learn more about our Dana Brown Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.