The Family Center

Where Will You Go?

Thank you for choosing The Family Center at Trident Health System for your maternity services. Let us be the first to congratulate you on the impending new addition to your family. We are honored to be part of this exciting time.

Whether you are first-time parents or seasoned pros, every birthing experience is unique. We realize you will have plenty of questions and decisions to make, so please turn to us as a resource for information and to help you through this new phase of your life.

Enjoy the next several months and thank you again for letting us be part of your growing family.

Hospital Services

Through our philosophy of family-centered care, our staff will focus on your unique needs with an emphasis on safety, rest, comfort and learning. We encourage your family or support persons to be part of this entire experience.

You will labor, deliver and recover in one room on the Labor and Delivery Unit. Afterward you will be transferred to the Mother/Baby Unit where you will receive Couplet Care. This concept allows one nurse to care for both you and your baby. Your nurse will evaluate your individual needs and provide you and your newborn with the support and education you need to feel confident in your new role once you are discharged.

There are many benefits of family-centered care, including individualized attention, consistent nursing care, education and increased confidence in caring for yourself and your newborn in a homelike environment that promotes rest.

Pre-Admission

Obtain a maternity pre-admission form from your physician’s office. Fill it out and send it to the hospital. Military personnel need to obtain a non-availability statement before being hospitalized.

Insurance Benefits

Check with your insurance company immediately to learn about the length of stay and other maternity-related costs and benefits that are covered. If you are unsure about your charges or financial requirements related to your stay, one of our financial counselors will be happy to talk with you.

Breastfeeding Resources

The Family Center provides lactation services and resources for all breastfeeding mothers and families.

If you need assistance with breastfeeding or have questions, you can schedule an individual appointment with one of our board-certified lactation consultants; call 843-847-4554.

Additional Lactation Services:

• Discounted pumps and supplies are available for purchase or rent.
• Best Fed Baby, free weekly support groups at Trident and Summerville Medical Centers.
• Breastfeeding classes.

Packing for Your Hospital Stay

What to bring for baby:

• Clothing for trip home.
• Undershirt.
• Receiving blanket.
• Bunting and warm hat (if cold temperatures).
• Car seat (make sure the seat is installed properly before the baby is born.)

What to bring for mom:

• Personal items and toiletries (brush, comb, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, soap, etc.).
• Bra (nursing bra if breastfeeding).
• Underpants.
• Slippers and bathrobe.
• 2-3 nightgowns (open in front if breastfeeding).
• Loose clothes to wear home (preferably maternity clothing).
• Camera and batteries.
• Baby book.

Making it Official

A representative from the hospital’s Medical Records Department will be visiting you to obtain information needed to register the birth of your child. You will be given a form to mail to the state Department of Health and Environmental Control to obtain a copy of your child’s birth certificate. DHEC charges $12 for a copy. Trident Health System does not collect money for birth certificates.

The medical records representative also will ask if you would like a social security number and card issued for your child. If you would like one, the federal government will issue it automatically when the birth is registered. This takes up to 12 weeks. You do not need to pay for a social security number nor do you need to pay the “Federal Records Service” fee of $15 to process an application.