Anita McDowell, social worker

In the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), there regularly are families who require extra support, sometimes for weeks or months. Social worker, Anita McDowell, is there for them whether they have been uprooted from their communities to be with their babies, come from lower socioeconomic backgrounds or are dealing with substance abuse issues. She provides not only in-hospital support and guidance, but she also connects families with community resources.

Anita often acts as a bridge between families and the medical care team, encouraging families to participate in decisions about their babies’ care. Some NICU families feel uncomfortable or unable to participate in care decisions. Some Indigenous families have mistrust of the healthcare system. Sometimes families cannot attend during daily rounds, so Anita acts as an advocate ensuring the care team keeps the family’s perspective at the forefront of all discussions.

When a baby is admitted to the NICU, the first hour can be busy. Often the baby’s mom is still in labour and delivery. Anita is often close by to explain what is happening. If the family is from outside of Edmonton, Anita helps them find appropriate lodging and access to meals.

Anita tries to connect with all NICU families to gain an understanding of who they are as a family, to assess their understanding of their baby’s care plan and to offer support.