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A NICU admission means your baby needs to be brought into the NICU to get special care because your baby needs extra help, like breathing support, feeding through a tube, or treatment for an illness. An admission can be overwhelming for parents, so here’s an explanation of what happens:

1. Initial Admission and Assessment
   • When your baby is admitted to the NICU, a healthcare team of doctors, nurses, and respiratory therapists will assess their condition. An assessment includes doing a physical examination of your baby, checking their breathing, heart rate, temperature, and other vital signs.
   • The team may perform tests such as labs, X-rays, or ultrasounds to better understand your baby’s health needs.
2. Specialized Care
   • Your baby will be placed in an incubator or a radiant warmer to keep their body temperature stable.
   • Depending on your baby’s needs, they may receive:
     • Respiratory Support: Breathing support can be given through a mask over the baby’s face, small and short tubes that go through their nostrils, or a breathing tube. Different machines can deliver breathing support those equipment. These machines can include high flow nasal cannula, CPAP, or ventilators help with breathing.
     • Nutritional Support: If your baby cannot feed by mouth, they may receive nutrients through an IV, an umbilical catheter, or a feeding tube.
     • Medications: To treat infections, help with breathing, or address other issues.
3. Continuous Monitoring
   • Nurses and doctors will closely monitor your baby’s condition 24/7 using machines that track heart rate, oxygen levels, and more.
   • They will adjust treatments as your baby grows and improves.
4. Family Involvement
   • Parents are encouraged to be involved as much as possible. Your baby’s team may ask you to sign consent forms, encourage you to visit your baby regularly, do kangaroo care, and help with feeding, diaper changes, or other caregiving tasks when appropriate.
5. Team Approach
   • A multidisciplinary team of neonatologists, nurses, respiratory therapists, dietitians, and social workers will work together to provide the best care.
   • You’ll be updated regularly about your baby’s progress and can ask questions or share concerns at any time.

It’s natural to feel a mix of emotions during this time. The NICU team is there to care for your baby and support your family through this journey.