What are the Roles and Responsibilities of NICU Nurses?
NICU nurses play a crucial role in providing comprehensive care to neonates. Their responsibilities include:
- Monitoring vital signs: NICU nurses are responsible for continuously monitoring the vital signs of newborns, such as heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation levels. - Administering medications: They ensure that medications are given correctly and on time, often through intravenous (IV) lines. - Feeding assistance: NICU nurses help with feeding, whether it be through breastfeeding support, bottle feeding, or tube feeding. - Family education and support: They provide emotional support to families, educate them about their baby's condition, and involve them in the care process. - Performing specialized procedures: They are trained to handle procedures like intubation, central line insertions, and managing ventilators.