Skip to main content

This can feel confusing at first. Here are the basics.

Understanding the NICU

What you'll see

Machines

Incubators keep babies warm. Ventilators help with breathing. Monitors track heart rate and oxygen.

Nurses and doctors

A team of specialists care for your baby 24/7. They're there to answer your questions.

Monitors and alarms

Screens show numbers. Alarms happen often. Staff check them quickly. You can ask what they mean.

What people might say

  • NICU – Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
  • Incubator – The clear cot keeping your baby warm
  • Ventilator – Machine helping your baby breathe
  • CPAP – Air pressure helping keep airways open
  • Apnoea – When breathing pauses briefly
  • Bradycardia – Slower heart rate
  • NG tube – Feeding tube through the nose

What matters right now

  • Your baby is being monitored constantly
  • You don't need to understand everything
  • You can ask questions anytime

Log feeds and milestones easily with the TinySteps app

Download