⚠ Microsoft outage

Due to a global Microsoft outage, our email services are not working. If you're experiencing an emergency, call Triple Zero (000). If you need to make urgent contact with the RCH, the hospital phone number is (03) 9345 5522.

Victorian Government caretaker period

As the Victorian State election will be held on Saturday 28 November 2026, the Victorian Government will assume a Caretaker role from 6pm on 3 November 2026. During the caretaker period, content will only be added to this website in accordance with the Caretaker Conventions. See Guidelines for Caretaker Conventions.

Transition from intensive care to high dependency

  • Babies in this category will usually be receiving high-flow nasal prong oxygen, they may be having some suck feeds, or feeds via a tube

    More things you can do for your baby at this stage

    • learning how to feed your baby – this may be through a tube until they are ready to feed at mother’s breast or bottle.
    • having regular skin-to-skin care sessions and breast contact if able.
    • learning how to give oral medications, and assisting nursing staff with this task.
    • learning how to read your babies 'cues' to understand when they want to be comforted, when they are hungry, and when they need rest.
    • working with our allied health team to learn the best ways to provide developmental opportunities for you and your baby, including singing, positioning and play.
    Transition from ICU