April 07, 2014

After 27 years in the neonatal intensive care unit, Virginia “Ginny” Summe has developed a focus on treating infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome,

a condition caused by exposure to narcotics in-utero. Instead of shying away from these difficult-to-treat patients, Summe identified an approach to not only improve their quality of life but to also personally connect with the mothers through education programs she has developed.

“I am honored and humbled by this award. As a bedside nurse taking care of infants with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome, I had an idea about how to possibly get infants out of the NICU sooner. I wanted to educate the moms on what to expect and how to take care of their infants before they deliver. Encouraging moms with positive input about their treatment program and giving them the tools to prepare themselves is key.

Teaching at First Step Home gives these moms a familiar face if and when they are admitted to the NICU. I feel this is a positive approach to family-centered care. I am rewarded when the babies go home with their mothers sooner than expected and the moms are prepared to take care of the babies in the future.”