 Overview of Neonatology: High-Risk Newborn
The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, rated No. 5 in the nation by Parents magazine, is capable of caring for infants with the most complex medical problems and those requiring surgery within days or weeks of birth. The depth and breadth of staff specialization is one reason Children's Hospital's NICU stands out.
Every family looks forward to the birth of a healthy newborn. It is an exciting time with so much to look forward to. In some cases, though, unexpected difficulties and challenges occur along the way. Some newborns have greater chances of complications because of conditions that occur during fetal development, pregnancy conditions of the mother or problems that may occur during labor and birth. These babies are called high-risk newborns. Some complications are unexpected and may occur without warning. Other times, there are risk factors that make problems more likely.
Fortunately, advances in technology have helped improve the care of sick newborns. Under the care of specialized physicians and other health care providers, babies have much greater chances for surviving and getting better today than ever before.
Neonatal Intensive Care Outcomes
While there are other hospitals in the region with level III neonatal intensive care units, the Children's Hospital NICU stands apart.
Compared to other hospitals in the Pediatric Health Information System database:
 Inborn patients at Children's Hospital reflected a lower average number of ventilator days.
- Children's Hospital was consistently below the comparative group in the average oxygen use days for patients weighing less than 1,500 grams.
- Our average charge per visit and charge per day for patients weighing less than 1,500 grams was consistently lower.
To learn more about our outcomes and services, download our 2007 Neonatology Outcomes Report.
Learn more about why you should choose Children's Hospital's NICU to care for your fragile newborn.
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