NICU consultants and support staff

HEMATOLOGIST-ONCOLOGIST

A hematologist-oncologist is a physician with special training in the diagnosis and treatment of blood disorders (hematologic system) and types of cancer. They might be asked to see a patient for bleeding problems due to low platelets or other clotting factors.

To help in the diagnosis and care of these babies, tests, such as a CBC or clotting studies, might be ordered.

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INFECTIOUS DISEASE SPECIALIST

An infectious disease specialist is a physician with special training in the evaluation and treatment of infections. They might be asked to see a patient when they develop unusual or serious infections.

Infections in babies can include blood infections or infections of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis). Tests, such as a CBC, blood cultures, CRP, and spinal taps, might be ordered to help evaluate an infection.

MATERNAL-FETAL MEDICINE SPECIALIST

A maternal-fetal medicine physician or perinatologist is an obstetrician with special training in the care of pregnant women having problems (high risk). They can care for mothers with problems, such as premature labor, multiple pregnancy, hypertension in pregnancy, or diabetes.

NEONATAL NURSE PRACTITIONER (NNP)

Neonatal Nurse Practitioners are expert neonatal nurses who have obtained a graduate degree (or certificate), with emphasis in caring for the needs of critically ill newborns and their families. The NNP works in collaboration with a neonatologist to diagnose and treat the conditions of babies. The NNP also performs procedures to aid in the diagnosis (e.g., spinal taps) and management (e.g., chest tube placement) of medical conditions. They are highly skilled professionals with great experience in the care of newborn infants.

NEPHROLOGIST

A nephrologist is a physician with special training in evaluating and treating problems with the kidneys and urinary system. They might be consulted for problems due to abnormal development of the kidneys such as hydronephrosis (excess fluid within the kidney and collecting tubules), or to help care for a baby when their kidneys are not functioning correctly.

Nephrologists might order tests, such as an electrolytes or abdominal ultrasounds, to evaluate these problems. If a baby has abnormal development in the structure of the kidneys which requires surgery, the nephrologist will work with a surgeon or urologist.

NEUROLOGIST

A neurologist is a physician with special training in the evaluation and treatment of disorders of the brain, nerves, and muscles. They might be asked to see infants that have problems, such as seizures or bleeding in the brain.