Also called: Neonatology; Neonatal Care
Sometimes, babies need a little extra care after they are born. At UAMS, we care for babies in our state-of-the-art neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
Who Is Involved in Neonatal Care?
Caring for a baby takes a whole team of experts. The primary doctor who cares for your baby is called a neonatologist. A neonatologist is a pediatrician (children’s doctor) and has special training in caring for sick babies. At UAMS, our NICU is staffed by experienced doctors, nurses, therapists, dieticians, pharmacists, and more.
The neonatal care program at UAMS also includes patient education and lactation consultation so that each family leaves our care with the knowledge they need to support the health of their baby.
What Sets Neonatal Care at UAMS Apart
The UAMS neonatal care model is designed to keep you and your loved ones connected to your baby while in the hospital.
Many of the babies we care for are:
- Born prematurely/preterm (called preemies)
- Multiple gestation babies (twins, triplets, etc.)
- Diagnosed with congenital anomalies before birth
When a baby stays in the NICU, UAMS keeps you connected and promotes bonding with your baby. To support your connection with your baby, we offer:
- Angel Eye cameras so that you can see your baby if you aren’t physically present
- Private rooms for our patients, including rooms made especially for twins to stay together
- Kangaroo care (skin-to-skin contact) to help with bonding, baby’s development, and mom’s breastfeeding and milk supply
- The option to stay in your baby’s room overnight
- A new Ronald McDonald Family Room for day use and overnight stays by families and older siblings
