I am from Quebec and not the states but I can share with you what we do
when a sick mom is admitted to the hospital and is breastfeeding.

Since we opened this new hospital in 1983, the policy has been clear, in
order to protect the relationship between bf mom and her baby. The mom
is officially admitted on one unit depending of type of disease and baby
is officially admitted in Pediatrics.

Baby stays in mom's room unless she is very, very sick and alone, and
cannot take care of baby between feedings. Otherwise, baby goes in
Pediatrics between feedings and during mom's surgery for example. If dad
is there (dads can stay overnight and sleep in mom's room; we bring
another bed in the room), then he is the one looking for the baby's
safety. Parents do appreciate this.

Also worth knowing, the hospital is protected legally if something ever
happens, such as a fire and that everyone has to evacuate quick. We know
who is where then and under whose responsibility.

Hope this helps you.

Louise Dumas, R.N., M.S.N., PhD
Professor-researcher in Nursing Sciences
University of Quebec in Hull