The NICU is also sometimes called the special care baby unit (SCBU).

These providers all give care in the NICU. Many are part of the daily routine in the unit. Some care for the whole unit in shifts. Others are specifically assigned to your baby’s care.

• RN (registered nurse). Gives bedside nursing care and oversees other nurses.

• LVN (licensed vocational nurse) or LPN (licensed practical nurse). A nurse who provides care under an RN.

• Pediatrician. A healthcare provider who treats babies and children.

• Neonatologist. A pediatrician who specializes in treating newborn babies.

• Neonatal fellow. A pediatrician in training to become a neonatologist.

• Resident. A healthcare provider training to become a pediatrician, family physician, or other type of specialist.

• Pharmacist. A healthcare provider who specializes in medicine. He or she makes sure your baby receives the right drug in the correct amount and on schedule.

• PA (physician assistant). A provider trained to do many of the same tasks as doctors and who are supervised by the neonatologist or attending physician.

• NP (nurse practitioner). An advanced practice RN with specialized training in treating newborn babies.

• Respiratory therapist. Manages oxygen and breathing issues.

• Lactation consultant. Helps mothers and babies with breastfeeding issues.

• Nutritionist or dietitian. Monitors the nutritional status of your baby and advises with IV and enteral (milk) nutrition.

• Physical or occupational therapist. Helps improve a baby’s movement and strength.

• Speech therapist. Helps with feeding issues (sucking and swallowing involve the same muscles used for speech).

• Social worker. Helps with nonhealth issues. These include insurance, transportation, and support.

Your baby may be seen by one or more specialists. These healthcare providers focus on the care and treatment of certain body systems. They often have special training in pediatrics as well.

• Cardiologist: Heart

• Endocrinologist: Glands and hormones

• Gastroenterologist: Digestive system

• Geneticist: Genetic (inherited) conditions

• Hematologist: Blood

• Nephrologist: Kidneys

• Neurologist: Brain and nervous system

• Neurosurgeon: Surgery of the brain and nervous system

• Ophthalmologist: Eyes

• Pulmonologist: Lungs

• Urologist: Urinary system and reproductive system