I went for a tour of Mercy last week since I'm delivering with Evelyn there in about 5 weeks or so and thought I'd post some information that they gave me in case it will help anyone else.
You are allowed 4 visitors on the L&D and recovery floors (separate floors). Not sure how strict they are about this, but there is a very big waiting area on the lobby floor.
Since they only have 2 rooms with tubs, I asked the guide how likely it is that I would be able to snag one and she said that they usually try to reserve the tub rooms for patients of the midwives, and it's a good idea to call when I'm in early labor to let them know. She thought it was likely that I would be able to get one.
She also told me that they have squat bars in every room and it doesn't take very long to set up at all if I decide I want one. They have 2 birthing balls and she said they are rarely used, but I could always bring my own if I wanted.
Let's see, she also said rooming-in is standard unless you ask for the baby to go to the nursery. When we went by the nursery, there were 2 babies there.
We are allowed to take video/photos during the labor and delivery, but no video in the operating room if you have a c-section. She also said that it's no problem for us to give baby his first bath in the room.
Ice chips/clear liquids are standard, but our caregiver could override those instructions (snacks and other liquids). Fridge and microwave access on the floor.
I also received a flyer for a new parents group. It's held on Mondays from 10:30-11:30AM, Sheehan conference room, POB 3rd floor. Call Gloria Royster at 410-332-9604 to register for 6-week sessions. It's open to babies 1 week to 6 months of age and their parents and is free of charge.
The only thing I am kicking myself for not asking about is lactation consultants, but I will ask Evelyn about it this week.
It was weird, no one else in the group asked any questions!
You are allowed 4 visitors on the L&D and recovery floors (separate floors). Not sure how strict they are about this, but there is a very big waiting area on the lobby floor.
Since they only have 2 rooms with tubs, I asked the guide how likely it is that I would be able to snag one and she said that they usually try to reserve the tub rooms for patients of the midwives, and it's a good idea to call when I'm in early labor to let them know. She thought it was likely that I would be able to get one.
She also told me that they have squat bars in every room and it doesn't take very long to set up at all if I decide I want one. They have 2 birthing balls and she said they are rarely used, but I could always bring my own if I wanted.
Let's see, she also said rooming-in is standard unless you ask for the baby to go to the nursery. When we went by the nursery, there were 2 babies there.
We are allowed to take video/photos during the labor and delivery, but no video in the operating room if you have a c-section. She also said that it's no problem for us to give baby his first bath in the room.
Ice chips/clear liquids are standard, but our caregiver could override those instructions (snacks and other liquids). Fridge and microwave access on the floor.
I also received a flyer for a new parents group. It's held on Mondays from 10:30-11:30AM, Sheehan conference room, POB 3rd floor. Call Gloria Royster at 410-332-9604 to register for 6-week sessions. It's open to babies 1 week to 6 months of age and their parents and is free of charge.
The only thing I am kicking myself for not asking about is lactation consultants, but I will ask Evelyn about it this week.
It was weird, no one else in the group asked any questions!
You SIL might also want to look into the birth centers. I know it's not really a fun drive from Baltimore, but she'd be closer than I am! 
As long as she;s not due between memorial day and labor day it shouldn't be too bad...lol. I would worry about shore traffic if I were due mid-summer! 
