NICU Care Team

Neonatal nurse practitioners (NNP)

NNPs are nurses who have completed specialized training to care for critically ill babies. They perform physical examinations, write orders and do procedures. NNPs also coordinate our clinical staff nurses, arrange family meetings and help you and your baby get ready for discharge.

Nurses

Nurses in the NICU are trained to provide daily care for your baby. They closely monitor your baby’s progress and usually have the most up-to-date information about your baby’s care. The nurses will also teach you how to care for your baby. Being involved in your baby’s care is very important.

Some nurses also have additional specific responsibilities within the unit.

• The team leader (TL) is an experienced nurse who leads the nursing shift
• A nurse is assigned to the care of your baby
• The parent resource nurse provides support through education and connecting parents to community resources
• The patient care manager (PCM) provides leadership and oversight for nurses, team leaders and unit clerks
• Clinical coordinators are responsible for managing daily unit activity and flow
• The quality coordinator is responsible for improving the quality and safety of patient care
• Nurse clinicians are responsible for the orientation and ongoing education of the nursing staff

Respiratory therapists

Respiratory therapists are important members of our NICU team. They have specialized training in managing breathing and airways to support your baby's breathing.

Lactation consultants

Lactation consultants (LCs) are nurses with advanced training in breastfeeding and chestfeeding management. LCs are available to help parents with breastfeeding, chestfeeding and pumping.

Dietitians

NICU dietitians are experts on the nutritional needs of preterm and critically ill babies. They work closely with the medical team to make sure your baby is getting the nutrition they need to grow and develop. If you would like to meet with the dietitian, please ask your nurse.

Social workers

Having a baby in the NICU can be very stressful. A NICU social worker can provide support and help you cope during this time. They have specialized training in therapeutic counselling and mental health support for families of critically ill babies in hospital.

If needed, social workers can also help connect you with resources, such as housing, transportation and financial benefits. If you would like to speak to a social worker, please ask your baby’s nurse.

Pharmacists

Pharmacists in the NICU specialize in working with preterm babies. They work closely with the medical team to ensure that babies receive the medications that are most appropriatefor their individual needs. They are available to answer any questions you may have about your baby’s medication.

Spiritual care providers

Spiritual care providers offer specialized care, providing comfort and spiritual support based on your own beliefs and values.

Occupational therapists and physiotherapists

Occupational therapists and physiotherapists may work with you and your baby on oral feeding, positioning and movement, and other developmental issues that your baby may have.

Veteran parent support

Funded by the Lang Family Foundation Dylan Sophia Perinatal Grief and Trauma Coaching Program, the veteran parent support role is held by a former NICU parent who provides peer support to current NICU families through their shared lived experience. This role offers compassionate, family-centred support to parents navigating the emotional challenges of a NICU stay.