NICU Nurse

A NICU Nurse takes care of very tiny newborn babies in a special hospital room called the NICU, made for babies who were born early or need extra help to get strong. Other nurses may care for people of all ages, but a NICU Nurse works only with the very smallest babies. They check each baby's breathing and warmth, watch soft screens that show a heartbeat, and give milk with tiny, gentle bottles. For example, they might tuck a baby into a warm, clear bed that feels as cozy as a nest.

This work matters because tiny babies can't tell anyone what they need, so a NICU Nurse learns to notice small signs, like a little wiggle or a soft cry. They also show parents and families how to hold, feed and comfort their baby, so everyone feels ready to go home together. Day by day, one cuddle and one feeding at a time, they help a small baby grow stronger.