Knowing these terms will help you understand the care your baby is receiving in the NICU:
Neonatologists: Doctors with specialized training in the care of fragile newborns, on-site around the clock. They work together with our specially trained nursing staff to provide life-saving care and high-tech monitoring until babies are stable on their own.
Antepartum: Pre-natal (before birth) unit in the hospital where pregnant mothers are monitored around the clock to prevent preterm labor.
NICU: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, where premature or full term but critically ill babies are monitored and cared for.
Kangaroo Care: Method of caring for a premature baby in which the baby is periodically held against a parent’s bare chest.
Lactation Consultant: Health professionals trained specifically to offer breast feeding assistance and education. Typically certified by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners.
Pediatric Ophthalmologist: A sub-specialty of ophthalmology concerned with diseases of the eyes in children.
Speech Therapists: These professionals can help preemies who are struggling with latch/oral issues in breastfeeding or bottle feeding.
Physical Therapists: These professional work with preemies in matters such as positioning and strengthening.
