High-Risk Newborn
The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
Assessments of Newborn Babies
Caring for Babies in the NICU
Common Conditions and Complications
Parenting in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
Breastfeeding the High-Risk Newborn
Taking Your Baby Home
Glossary
Online Resources
Every family looks forward to the birth of a healthy newborn. It is an exciting time with so much to enjoy.
Some newborns are considered high risk. This means that a newborn has a greater chance of complications because of conditions that occur during fetal development, pregnancy conditions of the mother, or problems that may occur during labor and birth.
Some complications are unexpected and may occur without warning. Other times, there are certain 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 healthcare providers, babies have much greater chances for surviving and getting better today than ever before.
The information on this Web page is provided for educational purposes. You understand and agree that this information is not intended to be, and should not be used as, a substitute for medical treatment by a health care professional. You agree that Lucile Salter Packard Children's Hospital is not making a diagnosis of your condition or a recommendation about the course of treatment for your particular circumstances through the use of this Web page. You agree to be solely responsible for your use of this Web page and the information contained on this page. Lucile Salter Packard Children's Hospital, its officers, directors, employees, agents, and information providers shall not be liable for any damages you may suffer or cause through your use of this page even if advised of the possibility of such damages.