Care Providers in the NICU
Among the professionals you may meet in the NICU include:
Neonatologist — a pediatric MD specializing in premature or ill newborns.
Pediatrician — a physician specially trained to care for infants and children.
(NICU) Staff Nurse — a nurse specially trained in the care of premature and sick infants.
Respiratory Therapist — a healthcare professional who specializes in breathing functions.
Breastfeeding / Lactation Specialist — a registered nurse who helps mothers and newborns succeed in breastfeeding.
Occupational and Physical Therapists — specialty-trained healthcare professionals who assist with your baby's development, positioning, feeding and the ways the baby relates to his or her environment.
Medical Social Worker/Discharge Planner — healthcare professionals who can lend emotional support and communicate with your insurance carrier about coverage and authorization.
Unit Coordinators and Certified Nursing Assistants — team members who provide clerical support, stock supplies, bathe infants and assist as needed.
Laboratory and Radiology Technologists — healthcare professionals who take blood samples and perform X-rays.