NICU

NICU or Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is a specialized department of a hospital that provides intensive care for newborn infants. The NICU combines advanced technology and trained healthcare professionals to provide specialized care for the tiniest patients. NICUs may also have intermediate or continuing care areas for babies who are not as sick but do need specialized nursing care.

History

The first NICU was established in 1960 by Louis Gluck at Yale–New Haven Hospital. The development of the NICU has contributed significantly to the reduction of infant mortality and morbidity rates.

Types of NICU

There are four different types of NICU, which are categorized based on the level of care they provide. These include:

• Level I (Well Newborn Nursery): This type of NICU is designed to care for healthy, full-term babies and babies who are slightly premature but are stable.
• Level II (Special Care Nursery): This type of NICU is designed to care for babies who are moderately ill with problems that are expected to resolve rapidly.
• Level III (Neonatal Intensive-Care Unit): This type of NICU is designed to care for very ill newborns or those who are premature and require high-intensity care.
• Level IV (Regional Neonatal Intensive-Care Unit): This type of NICU is designed to care for the sickest and most premature babies, offering the highest level of care.

Staff

The NICU staff typically includes neonatologists, neonatal nurses, respiratory therapists, lactation consultants, social workers, and dietitians. Each member of the team plays a critical role in providing care to the babies and support to their families.

Common Conditions Treated in the NICU

Common conditions that may require a baby to be admitted to the NICU include premature birth, low birth weight, intrauterine growth restriction, congenital malformations, sepsis, pulmonary hypoplasia, or birth asphyxia.

See Also

• Pediatrics
• Neonatology
• Premature birth
• Low birth weight
• Congenital malformations

NICU Resources
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