Most babies admitted to the NICU are preterm (born before 37 weeks gestation), have low birth weight, or have a health condition that needs special care. In the U.S., nearly half a million babies are born preterm. Babies with health conditions such as trouble breathing, heart problems, infections, or birth defects are also cared for in the NICU.
Below are some factors that can place a baby at high risk and increase the chances of being admitted to the NICU.
BABY FACTORS INCLUDE:
Born <37 weeks gestation or >42 weeks.
Low or high birth weight (SGA or LGA)
The need for emergency medication or resuscitation in the delivery room
Birth defects/congenital anomalies (cardiac, dysmorphic features, intestinal malformation, etc.)
Respiratory distress (apnea, fetal distress, birth asphyxia)
Infection from an STI such as herpes, syphilis, group B streptococcus, chlamydia
Neurological disorder (seizures, hydrocephalus, IVH, etc.)
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
Breech or other abnormal positioning
Meconium aspiration
Umbilical cord wrapped around the baby's neck (nuchal cord)
Forceps, vacuum-assist, or cesarean delivery injury
MATERNAL FACTORS INCLUDE:
Being younger than age 16 or older than age 35 (AKA advanced maternal age)
Drug or alcohol use
Diabetes
High blood pressure (preeclampsia)
Bleeding / placental complication
Multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets, etc.)
Too little or too much amniotic fluid
Premature rupture of membranes
NICU community, any other factors that I’m missing???
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