Our Caring NICU Staff
If your baby has special needs that require a stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), it is comforting to know who is caring for your baby. Below you will find an overview of the staff who meets your baby's needs in the NICU.
Neonatologist
A neonatologist is a pediatrician who specializes in the care of newborns. You may wish to ask the neonatologist about your baby's medical condition, plan of care and discharge plan. Your doctor will be happy to speak with you regarding these details.
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner or Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP)
A neonatal nurse practitioner is a nurse with advanced training and experience in the NICU. Practitioners work closely with doctors in planning and providing medical care, and they are happy to answer any questions regarding your baby's medical care.
Occupational/Physical Therapist
Occupational therapists (OTs) and physical therapists (PTs) promote optimal growth and development for your infant. Therapists can teach you infant massage, positioning and handling techniques, and appropriate environmental modifications that are necessary to make your baby more comfortable. An individualized program is established based on your baby's medical diagnosis and gestational age.
Registered Nurse
All nurses that care for your baby have specialized training in neonatal care. Many different nurses will care for your baby in the NICU; therefore, you will see many different faces. All nurses receive a thorough report on your baby that allows them to take very good care of your infant for the duration of their shift.
Respiratory Therapist
Respiratory therapists are responsible for your baby's respiratory care. They manage ventilators and other respiratory equipment, as well as give breathing treatments to help your baby breathe easier, if needed.
Speech Therapist
A speech therapist (ST) focuses on your infant's feeding behavior. An individualized feeding program will be established based on your baby's needs. The speech therapist will address any questions you may have regarding when to begin to nipple feed, how frequently to nipple feed and the best choice of nipple for your baby. Parents will be taught various strategies and techniques to enhance feeding development, including oral motor exercises and the best way to position the infant for feeding.