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The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, frequently called NICU (nik'-u), is a 44 bed, Level IV facility that provides services for premature and sick babies born at the Sara Lee Center for Women's Health. The facility and services offered are based on guidelines set forth by the American Academy of Pediatrics and other related agencies.

The NICU staff specializes in caring for babies who need very close observation or intensive medical treatment. The physicians directing the care of the babies in the NICU are full time faculty members in the Neonatology Division of Wake Forest University School of Medicine. The professional NICU staff consists of nursing staff members, medical staff members, respiratory therapists, social workers, a pharmacist, and a nutritionist/lactation consultant. Various community resource groups, such as Parents Supporting Parents work closely with NICU.

Parents are welcome! They are encouraged to spend time with their baby or to call about their baby 24 hours a day. A toll-free number is available for those parents who live outside of the local dialing area. Parking is free for parents and grandparents while the baby is hospitalized. Parents who live out-of-town may be able to stay at the Ronald McDonald House if space is available.

When premature babies are recovered from the critical stages of their illnesses, many graduate to a nursery to begin preparing baby and his/her parents for discharge home. To help parents become more comfortable about taking their baby home, they are encouraged to stay in one of our Parenting Rooms for one or two nights prior to the baby's discharge. The NICU staff will be close by to assist with the baby and to answer any questions.

We realize that most parents are not prepared to have a baby come to NICU. Our staff cares for more than 1,200 babies each year, but be assured, every baby and family is special to us!