Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Childbirth is nothing short of a miracle, but when a baby is born too soon, too small or with complications, our highly respected

Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is there: offering the advanced capabilities and expertise needed to ensure your miracle grows and thrives.

As a Level III NICU, we offer round-the-clock, state-of-the-art care to critically ill newborns. Staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week by CHOC-affiliated neonatologists and a highly trained nursing staff, we specialize in creating exceptional outcomes for even the smallest of babies.

Our NICU is designed to accommodate the most sophisticated technology available, as well as today's newest innovations in neonate care. We encourage and support Kangaroo Care (skin-to-skin contact between parents and baby) as well as breastfeeding. Experienced nurse lactation specialists offer individualized instruction and support, helping new mothers provide this important nutrition in the way that works best for the infant and the parents at each stage of the baby's development.

When a baby requires care in the NICU, it is a stressful time for the entire family. But at St. Jude Medical Center, we’ve made it a little easier: new moms and dads can have the reassurance of watching their baby grow and develop from their computer or mobile device. Learn More

About Our Team

Infants within the St. Jude Medical Center NICU benefit from the combined expertise of a highly experienced multidisciplinary team. Led by board-certified neonatologists affiliated with Children's Hospital of Orange County, our compassionate and dedicated team includes:

• neonatal registered nurses
• respiratory care therapists
• developmental therapy specialists
• pharmacists
• certified lactation specialists
• social workers
• chaplains

Many different specialties with just one goal: helping your baby grow stronger.

Why Level III Care Matters

A high-risk infant born in a hospital with a Level III NICU has a significantly higher chance of survival than an infant born at a hospital without a NICU.

Most of the babies born at St. Jude Medical Center never require the specialized care provided by our Level III NICU. But their parents have the confidence and peace of mind that comes from knowing, if needed, today's most advanced care is available just down the hallway.

Visitation

To reduce risk of infection and create a therapeutic environment, only immediate family members are allowed on this unit. Please contact the NICU for more information at (714) 626-8522.