Henrico Doctors’ Hospital plans reopening for NICU admissions

HENRICO, Va. (WWBT) - Henrico Doctors’ Hospital says its Neonatal Intensive Care Unit will reopen for new admissions starting Wednesday.

This comes after the hospital suspended NICU operations after seven premature babies sustained unexplained broken bones between Aug. 2023 to Dec. 2024.

Erin Strotman, 26, a former Henrico Doctors' NICU nurse, is facing two felony charges related to one of the 2024 babies found with broken bones.

“Our patients should expect nothing short of exceptional care, which is why existing safety measures will remain in place, including our video security systems. One system allows parents to view their babies via live stream, and one system allows for internal security and safety review,” Henrico Doctors said in a statement.

Here’s a look at some of the safety measures put in place:

• Mandatory training for all healthcare providers who interact with minors, focused on identification and reporting of any signs that may indicate a child’s well-being is at risk.
• A new rapid debriefing process to help ensure timely reporting.
• Additional infection prevention measures and comprehensive training for all our NICU colleagues to help ensure a safe and healthy environment for our patients.

“Resuming admissions to our NICU marks a significant step forward, as our community will once again have access to this lifesaving resource they have relied upon for decades. Thousands of families have entrusted us with the care of their babies over these years, and we look forward to continue providing safe, compassionate and exceptional care to our most vulnerable patients,” Henrico Doctors’ Hospital CEO Ryan Jensen said.

Virginia Department of Health’s Communication Director Maria Reppas issued a response following the announcement Tuesday from Henrico Doctors’ Hospital:

“VDH has worked with HDH to introduce improved safety measures to include installation of cameras, enhanced safe-handling training for staff, additional infection control measures, and placed emphasis on mandatory reporting and debriefing procedures going forward. VDH will continue to partner with HDH to ensure these most vulnerable patients in the NICU receive the best care possible.”

Strotman is due back in court on Feb. 11. She is currently still licensed to practice nursing in 39 states, as well as Guam.