Oaklawn's first baby of 2018

Homer couple’s son is Oaklawn’s first baby of 2018

 MARSHALL – Oaklawn’s first baby of 2018 is Rhett Christopher Nevins, born at 12:22 p.m. Monday, Jan. 1, in the Oaklawn Birth Center. The child is the son of Brittany and Ryan Nevins of Homer.

Little Rhett weighed 9 pounds and 8 ounces at birth, and measured 20 inches long, Oaklawn’s nursing staff reported.

Rhett’s birth at Oaklawn is something of a family tradition, because both of his parents were born there as well, said Brittany Nevins, who praised Oaklawn’s staff for its helpfulness.

“It was great,” she said. “the nurses and the doctor were awesome.” The child is the couple’s first baby.

The hospital staff presented the family with a gift basket containing items for the child and family. Included were blankets, a layette, a child’s book, washcloths, toys, a first-aid kit and several additional items for the parents, including a coffee mug, tea, snack mix and a scented candle.

Oaklawn’s renovated Birth Center opened in 2012. Based on the number of deliveries since then, staff expect to welcome more than 800 newborns during 2018.

At Oaklawn, a new mother remains in one comfortable, homelike room from labor through the time she takes her baby home. Fathers, support persons and siblings are welcome at all times, and other family members and friends may visit during normal visiting hours.

Each of the 11 private rooms for labor, delivery, recovery and post-partum care is decorated in soft colors and features a private bathroom and shower, a rocking chair and other amenities to make the mother and baby feel at ease. Some rooms have whirlpool tubs.

Oaklawn’s infant security system allows the nursing team to monitor the location of each baby in the Birth Center, which is a locked unit monitored by staff members.

Experienced obstetrical nurses are always prepared to answer questions or respond to any need, and can provide information about natural relaxation, breathing techniques and pain medication. The Birth Center also offers pre-natal and childbirth education classes.

For additional information about the Oaklawn Birth Center and its services, go to www.oaklawnhospital.org or call (269) 789-3929.