Understanding Your Baby’s NICU Medical Team: Who Does What?

A simple guide to the NICU medical team — empowering families with knowledge and confidence.

When your newborn is admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), it’s normal to feel overwhelmed by medical terms and the many specialists involved in your baby’s care. Understanding the roles of your baby’s NICU medical team is one of the best ways to stay informed and engaged in your child’s health journey.

At Onsite Neonatal, we want to provide valuable, easy-to-understand resources that support your entire NICU experience.

Meet Your Baby’s NICU Medical Team

Neonatologists: Specialized Doctors for Your Newborn

Neonatologists are pediatricians with additional fellowship training in newborn intensive care. They lead your baby’s medical team, managing complex health conditions and coordinating treatments to ensure the best possible outcomes.

NICU Nurses: Your Baby’s Daily Care Experts

NICU nurses provide constant monitoring and hands-on care. They track vital signs, administer medications, assist with feeding, and offer comfort to your baby. Nurses are also a great resource for families, answering questions and teaching you how to care for your little one.

Respiratory Therapists: Helping Tiny Lungs Breathe

If your baby needs breathing support, respiratory therapists manage ventilators and oxygen therapies, ensuring your baby’s lungs receive the care they need.

Occupational and Physical Therapists: Supporting Development

These therapists help your baby develop feeding skills, motor abilities, and sensory processing, which are critical during early growth stages.

Social Workers & Family Support Staff: Here for You

NICU social workers provide emotional support, help with insurance or financial questions, and connect you to community resources. They help reduce stress and guide you through this challenging time.

Medical Residents, Students, and Learners: The Next Generation of NICU Care

In many NICUs, you may meet medical residents, fellows, or students who are training in neonatal care. These learners work closely under the supervision of experienced neonatologists and nurses. Their involvement helps them gain hands-on experience while your baby benefits from an expanded team of professionals focused on their care. They may participate in exams, procedures, and discussions about your baby’s treatment — always with your baby’s safety and comfort as the top priority.

Why Knowing Your NICU Team Matters to Families

Being informed about who cares for your baby builds confidence and helps you communicate clearly with medical staff. It also empowers you to participate actively in care decisions, improving your baby’s health outcomes and your family’s well-being.

Beyond Bill Pay: Your Trusted Family Resource

At Onsite Neonatal, we want to be more than just a place to pay your bill. Our Family Resources section offers educational articles, videos, and tools designed to support you throughout your NICU journey and beyond.

Looking for expert neonatal care or hospital partnership information? Explore our Hospital Partnerships page to learn how Onsite Neonatal helps communities provide outstanding newborn care.

Take the Next Step

Have questions about your baby’s NICU care team or want personalized support? Contact Onsite Neonatal today to connect with one of our neonatology experts. We’re here for you every step of the way.