Neonatal special care

Some newborn babies need extra care, particularly in the first month after their birth. They may have been born prematurely or are unwell and need specialised medical support within a dedicated care unit or neonatal nursery.

Our caregivers are well trained in neonatal special care and dedicated to helping your baby’s health improve, so they can be discharged as soon as possible.

Main reasons for a baby needing neonatal special care

Prematurity (born at less than 37 weeks gestation)
Respiratory (breathing) problems
Infection
Temperature instability (too cold or too warm)
Jaundice
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level)
Surgery
Congenital abnormalities (birth defects)

Caring for your baby

Many highly qualified medical professionals are involved in the care of babies admitted to the neonatal unit.

Those caring for your baby may include:

consultant paediatricians - who will review your baby’s condition every day and consult with other paediatric specialists where required
highly trained nurses – who have expertise in the care of babies requiring neonatal care, including neonatal nurse practitioners (NNP)
allied health professionals – including radiographers, ultrasonographers, social workers, pharmacists, dietitians and physiotherapists
additional members of our neonatal unit – such as ward clerks and pastoral care
and of course, you, the baby’s parents – we encourage your involvement in your baby’s experience in the neonatal care unit as much as possible, and your baby’s nurses and paediatricians are there to answer any questions or concerns you might have.