Neonatal ICU

Every year more than 1,000 infants are cared for in our Neonatal ICU (NICU). As the only Level III NICU in North Alabama, our unit is designated by the state as the Region I Referral Center for NICU care. This means that infants born in hospitals throughout our region come to Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children to receive critical, lifesaving medical care.

These infants are brought to our hospital by the Kids Care ambulance, which uses specialized equipment and highly trained staff to provide around-the-clock transport services for infants and newborns coming to the NICU.

Caring for these babies in a Level III NICU requires many clinical specialties. Our team includes:

Board Certified Neonatologists
Neonatal Nurse Practitioners
Neonatal Registered Nurses certified by the American Heart Association’s Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP). Many also hold an additional Neonatal Intensive Care Certification.
Respiratory Therapists
Lactation Consultants
Speech/Physical/Occupational Therapists
Registered Dietitians
Child Life Specialists
Cuddler Volunteers
Family Support Program to address the unique needs of NICU families

Our unit is also supported by the many pediatric physician specialists on Medical Staff including Maternal Fetal Medicine, Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Pulmonology, Pediatric Neurology, Pediatric Urology and Pediatric Endocrinology.

Within our team of clinicians, we’ve also developed a dedicated Small Baby Team with specialized training to provide care to our smallest, most fragile patients.

Spending time with your baby in the NICU is an important of your baby’s care. We are proud to have an open visitation policy for parents and guardians. We also encourage grandparents and siblings to visit at appropriate times. Click here to view or download the Neonatal ICU Visiting Policy.

Infant Nutrition Lab

We support breastfeeding because of the proven health benefits for both mom and baby. This includes North Alabama's only state-certified infant nutrition lab, a dedicated area where many of our babies' feedings are carefully and securely prepared by specially trained staff.

Nutrition plans developed by registered dietitians and neonatologists
Certified staff trained to prepare your baby’s feedings in a safe, clean environment
Breastmilk storage with closely monitored temperatures
Barcode scanning system for patient verification
Consistent fortification based on the nutritional needs of your baby

Breastfeeding moms are supported by our staff of International Board Certified Lactation Consultants with advanced training in assisting families in the NICU. Breastfeeding mothers are encouraged to breastfeed or pump at the baby's bedside or use one of our breastfeeding rooms for privacy.