Newborn ICU (NICU)
Advanced care for critically ill and premature newborns
A Newborn ICU (NICU) provides highly specialized care for newborns who are premature, critically ill, or require advanced monitoring after birth. Our teams are trained to care for the most fragile infants using advanced technology, continuous monitoring, and expert neonatal medical support.
We understand how important these early moments are for families. Our Newborn ICU (NICU) care is designed to combine advanced neonatal medicine with compassion, communication, and opportunities for bonding whenever possible.
Learn more about related services in our Pediatrics program and birthing services.
Newborn ICU (NICU) care within our health system
Our health system provides access to advanced Newborn ICU (NICU) services across multiple locations, ensuring newborns receive the appropriate level of care close to home whenever possible:
NICU care is closely connected with our OB and birthing care teams to ensure seamless support from delivery through newborn care.
Level II Newborn ICU (NICU) / Specialized Care Nursery
Our Level II Newborn ICU (NICU), also known as a Specialized Care Nursery, is designed to care for babies who are mildly to moderately ill or who have physiologic immaturity requiring additional monitoring and support.
This level of care supports infants born as early as 32 weeks gestation and weighing at least 1500 grams (3.3 lbs). Many conditions at this stage are expected to improve with short-term specialized care.
If additional support is needed, our neonatal team is ready to provide advanced care or coordinate transfer to a higher level of NICU care within our system.
Level III Newborn ICU (NICU) care
Level III Newborn ICU (NICU) care provides the highest level of neonatal support for critically ill and extremely premature newborns. This includes advanced respiratory support, continuous monitoring, and access to pediatric subspecialists and specialized neonatal equipment.
Family-centered Newborn ICU (NICU) environment
We believe families are an essential part of a baby’s healing and development. Our Newborn ICU (NICU) environment is designed to encourage bonding, participation in care, and family presence whenever possible.
One of our Newborn ICU (NICU) locations features a single-family room model for critically ill newborns, allowing parents to stay with their baby 24/7. These private rooms support privacy, comfort, and active participation in care during the most important early days of life.
Families can also connect with newborn care guidance through our Well Child Visits program after discharge.
Newborn ICU (NICU) features and support services
- Single-family room Newborn ICU (NICU) design in select locations
- Neonatologists specializing in critical newborn care
- Private rooms that support 24/7 parent presence and bonding
- Special accommodations for multiples, including twins and triplets
- NICVIEW secure webcam system for real-time family viewing from anywhere
- Comfortable family waiting areas with seating, TV, fireplace, play area, internet access, and kitchen space
- Family sleep rooms to support transition home after discharge
NICVIEW webcam system
The NICVIEW webcam system provides a secure, live video connection from your baby’s room in the Newborn ICU (NICU). Families receive a private login that can be shared with trusted friends and relatives, allowing loved ones to see the baby from anywhere with internet access.
This technology is available in select Newborn ICU (NICU) locations within our health system and helps promote connection and bonding even when families cannot be at the bedside.
Availability of NICVIEW and other NICU amenities may vary by location.
Specialty Newborn ICU (NICU) care team
Our Newborn ICU (NICU) teams include highly trained specialists who provide around-the-clock care, 365 days a year. The interdisciplinary team may include:
- Neonatologists (physicians specializing in newborn critical care)
- Pediatric subspecialists, including cardiology and gastroenterology
- Neonatal nurses
- Neonatal nurse practitioners
- Clinical nurse specialists
- Respiratory therapists
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapists
- Registered dietitians
- Pharmacists
- Social workers
Our care teams work closely with pediatric providers to ensure smooth transition from hospital to ongoing outpatient care.
Compassionate care for your newborn
Every newborn’s journey is unique. Our Newborn ICU (NICU) teams are committed to providing the highest level of medical care while supporting families with compassion, education, and partnership. We are here to care for your baby and support your family every step of the way.
Services, technology, and amenities described on this page may vary by location within our health system. Please contact your care team for details about availability at your specific site.