Christopher W. Woods, MSN, APRN

When a child is hospitalized in the intensive care nursery (ICN), my care wraps around the family. Parent involvement is essential to the healing and growth of infants in the ICN. That’s why my team communicates honestly with parents about their child’s condition while involving them in daily care. But having a child hospitalized is a stressful—and at times, frightening—experience for parents. My goal is to empower parents to make decisions that incorporate family values. I achieve that goal by listening closely to their questions and concerns. Throughout the ups and downs of hospitalization, parents can count on me for support. When my patients grow and thrive in the ICN, I’m tremendously rewarded. I love seeing families go home together. I'm humbled to earn parents' trust in caring for their children.

We, as healthcare professionals, only play a small part in the lives of our patients. That is why including family—the support system that follows an individual through their entire life—is a must. Family-centered care is imperative to healing and thriving. I offer unbiased care to meet the unique needs of each patient and their loved ones. When that care culminates in a parent holding their ill or premature child for the first time, I’m overjoyed. I love when patients visit after they’re discharged home. Seeing them happy and healthy, especially years later, is what makes my work special.

Stephanie J. Lanning, MPAS, PA-C, is a dedicated professional specializing in neonatology, affiliated with Dartmouth Health. She joined the team in 2016 and is committed to providing exceptional care for newborns and their families. Her educational background includes a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, where she graduated in 2015. Stephanie is board certified as a Physician Assistant, ensuring she meets the highest standards in her field. Generated from the website