Support and Care at a Level II NICU

Having a baby provides opportunity for parents to lean into their support system, especially in the early days of postpartum care. For parents of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) babies, one pillar of support is the NICU team caring for their child while they are still in the hospital. Laura Smith, MSN, RN, RNC-NIC, NICU Manager, Sierra Medical Center, explains how establishing support early sets parents up for success and provides them with needed tools for a safe discharge home.

What type of infant is admitted to a Level II NICU? 

A Level II NICU specializes in providing care to infants born at 32 weeks’ gestation or later and weighing more than three pounds, who have needs or conditions that require specialized medical attention.

What types of treatment and therapies are available to NICU infants?

While treatment can vary for each infant, the most common treatment needed is respiratory support. The two most common methods of respiratory therapy performed are continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and high-flow nasal cannula.

CPAP uses a special mask or prongs to cover an infant’s nose and send a continuous flow of oxygen and air into the lungs. This method gently keeps the air sacs open and helps the baby to breathe better.

High-flow nasal cannula is an alternative to CPAP where oxygen is delivered through small prongs. A continuous flow of oxygen is delivered to ease breathing and reduce the effort in the infant’s premature lungs.

Who works in a NICU?

In addition to hospital staff, including pharmacists and laboratory staff, a NICU is staffed with specialty trained nurses and respiratory therapists to ensure infants are being provided with the appropriate care for their size and stage of development. At Sierra Medical Center, our nursing team is highly trained and experienced working in a NICU setting.

Sierra Medical Center’s Level II NICU features 12 beds, including four private rooms for our most sensitive patients.