Take a moment to meet Elyssa Lowman, BSN, RNC-NIC, the evening Patient Care Coordinator for Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center's (CBMC) Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
How long have you been working at CBMC and in any other NICU?
I have been working at CBMC's NICU since April 2024 and in a Level 3 NICU since 2019.
Where did you receive your nursing education and training?
I received by Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Moravian College in Bethlehem, PA.
Please describe what your role/responsibilities are in the NICU?
As the Patient Care Coordinator (PCC) for the night shift, I am in charge of the unit. I attend deliveries and support the staff with any NICU babies that they need help with. I can find answers to any questions that families may have and I make sure that the best care is being given to the patients and families! I love being in the charge role and strive to be the leader that I would have wanted when I was a new nurse.
How did you know you wanted to be a NICU nurse?
I knew NICU was for me while spending one day shadowing in a NICU while I was in school. No other patient population on any floor in the hospital had sparked the joy, passion, and curiosity like NICU did for me. I also prefer babies to any other people!
What do you like the most about working in the NICU?
I love watching the babies grow and seeing new families form right in front of my eyes.
What does Family Centered Care mean to you?
It means that even though the baby is our main focus, we are responsible for the entire family. On top of our goal of a healthy baby at discharge, we also want them to go home to a happy, healthy and confident family.
Do you have any suggestions or advice for NICU families in general or about being involved in their babies care?
Yes, remember no question is ever “stupid!” You can ask the same question, seven times. We understand how overwhelming it can be. Every staff member here is willing to get the answers to anything you want to know. Feel empowered to be curious and to understand your baby and their care!
Anything else you would like to say about your job or the NICU?
I am thankful to be the PCC here and look forward to meeting you, answering your questions, and being whatever you need me to be for your baby’s stay here in the NICU.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love video games, heavy metal concerts, and I am waiting for the birth of a new cousin!
Learn more about the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center.