Recommended NICU design standards and the physical environment of the NICU

Impact of NICU design on environmental noise.

For neonates requiring intensive care, the optimal sound environment is uncertain. Minimal disruptions from medical staff create quieter environments for sleep, but limit language exposure necessary for proper language development. There are two models of neonatal intensive care units (NICUs): open-bay, in which 6-to-10 infants are cared for in a single large room; and single-room, in which neo...

NICU environment--a need for change.

During the last decade there has been tremendous progress in the care of critically ill children. Technological advance has resulted in improved diagnosis and treatment. Consequently there has been an impressive fall in neonatal mortality and the reduction of impairment and disability. However, in the present era of mechanization, considerations for psychological well being and the human touch ...

Antimicrobial stewardship in the NICU.

There are unique challenges to antimicrobial stewardship in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Diagnosis of infection is difficult as neonates can have nonspecific signs and symptoms. Between and within NICUs, significant variation exists in the treatment duration of suspected sepsis and pneumonia. Development of multidisciplinary teams and meaningful metrics are essential for sustainable a...

Noise pollution in the NICU

Neurodevelopmental care in the NICU.

Neurodevelopmental care, which is any NICU intervention undertaken to improve neurodevelopmental outcome, includes NICU design, nursing routines, nursing care plans, management of pain, feeding methods and, most importantly, encouraging parental involvement with their NICU infant. Recognition that sensory stimulation can overwhelm preterm infants and increase physiologic signs of stress led to ...