The Great Eight: Bronson's Neonatal Nurse Practitioners Deliver Exceptional NICU Care
Introduction
At Bronson Children’s Hospital, care in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is powered by a team unlike any other. Bronson Neonatal Nurse Practitioners (NNP), also known as ‘The Great Eight,’ bring something rare to southwest Michigan’s only NICU: deep experience, strong relationships and a shared commitment to every baby and family they serve.
Their story is rooted in internal growth, consistency and continuous improvement over time. Bronson introduced the NNP role in 2004 to bring advanced bedside expertise into the NICU. Today, the team has grown into eight highly skilled providers.
“What makes The Great Eight unique is most of us started our nursing career in the Bronson NICU,” explained Brenda McCrum, NNP. “We are all home-grown. This is not something you will see or find in many provider groups.”
Every member of The Great Eight has spent more than 20 years in the Bronson NICU, creating strong trust and teamwork. “We have a deep-rooted loyalty to Bronson and stand behind all the work that we do,” Brenda said.
Care Without Gaps
The Great Eight provide around-the-clock care for some of the region’s most fragile newborns. “Despite the demands of our job, we never have gaps in our schedule, including during nights, weekends and holidays,” Brenda said. “This means our NICU babies always have access to the care they need and rely on.”
Operating as a highly autonomous team, Bronson’s NNPs manage complex cases and high patient volumes with strong coordination. Their role also extends beyond the NICU, supporting newborn hospitalist coverage and neonatal transport services across the region.
That consistency makes a difference. Families see familiar faces. Care teams stay aligned. Physicians know they have strong support. It brings comfort and stability during uncertain moments. “Our neonatologists will tell you that they are able to recruit some of the best doctors due to the exceptional support from our NNP group,” she added.
Support for Families at Every Step
The work of Bronson’s NNPs often begins before birth. Through antenatal consults, they meet with families to explain what a NICU stay may involve. They are present in the delivery room, guide families through admission and stay involved throughout the entire NICU journey. They check in with families daily, either at the bedside or by phone, to ensure clear and steady communication.
During procedures, they provide another level of support. Bronson’s NNPs stay with babies from the start of surgery to the end, working closely with surgical and anesthesia teams while supporting families along the way.
Health in Harmony
The Great Eight are a clear example of Health in Harmony in action. They work closely with physicians, bedside nurses, respiratory therapists, pharmacists, social workers and other hospital teams to coordinate care.
Together, they make sure every decision is thoughtful and focused on the best possible outcome for every baby and family.
Commitment to Growth & Excellence
The team continues to look ahead. They take part in national collaboratives like the Vermont Oxford Network and lead efforts to improve outcomes for premature infants. Current work includes improving brain development, stabilizing admission temperatures and, in partnership with the Bronson Mother’s Milk Bank, increasing access to human donor milk.
As Bronson celebrates 125 years of caring for our communities, teams like The Great Eight show what sets that care apart – people working together every day to give babies the best possible start.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)?
An NNP is an advanced practice provider specializing in the care of premature and critically ill newborns. They manage complex medical needs, perform procedures and collaborate with neonatologists and care teams.
Why are they called “The Great Eight”?
The Bronson NNP team consists of eight highly experienced providers, most with more than 20 years in the Bronson NICU, known for their exceptional teamwork and dedication.
Do NNPs stay involved throughout a baby’s NICU stay?
Yes. Bronson’s NNPs support families from antenatal consults through delivery, admission, daily care and procedures.
How do NNPs support families emotionally?
They provide consistent communication, guidance and presence during critical moments, helping families navigate the NICU experience with clarity and reassurance.
What initiatives are The Great Eight currently working on?
Their current focus includes improving brain development, stabilizing admission temperatures and expanding access to donor milk for premature infants.
