Auburn Memorial Hospital will begin new security procedures in its maternity department on Monday.

The Obstetrics/Gynecology Department will become a "locked unit," monitored by staff who will limit access only to appropriate family, visitors, doctors, and hospital staff. The new rules will be enforced for all patients housed on the OB/GYN unit.

Those wishing to enter have to follow posted instructions to press a buzzer on a keypad outside the unit and be identified through an intercom system. A special access code to bypass the intercom system will be given only to specifically identified employees.

"We have decided to go to a lockdown system to enhance the security of our mothers and babies," department nurse manager Sherry Gunnip said in a news release.

AMH believes the intercom system will be more secure than hospitals that use electronic security-band systems because there will be no false alarms.

"The new system allows mothers to feel secure and safe, and to move freely within the unit," Gunnip said.

Fathers and siblings of the newborn babies will have unlimited access to promote bonding, as long as an adult accompanies the children. Only two other visitors will be allowed at a time. Others must wait in the central registration lobby.