The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is a specialized unit in a hospital for newborns who need intensive medical care. Babies may be admitted for reasons such as premature birth, low birth weight, breathing difficulties, infections, congenital conditions, or other medical complications.

NICUs are categorized into four levels:

Level I: Basic newborn care for healthy babies.

Level II: Special care nursery for moderately ill or premature infants.

Level III: Full-service NICU for critically ill newborns with advanced medical needs.

Level IV: The highest level of care, including surgery and specialized treatments for the most complex cases.

NICUs use various specialized equipment, such as:

Incubators: Temperature-controlled beds to help regulate body temperature.

Ventilators & CPAP machines: Help babies with breathing difficulties.

Monitors: Track heart rate, oxygen levels, and breathing.

IV Lines & Feeding Tubes: Provide necessary nutrition and medication.