Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) provides specialized care for babies born prematurely or with complex medical needs. At UConn Health Waterbury Hospital, Connecticut Children’s delivers Level III NICU care—supporting very small or critically ill newborns with advanced expertise and technology. Just as important, families receive compassionate, family-centered support during a critical time.

Two leading healthcare organizations working together to deliver advanced neonatal care where families need it most—close to home.

Care from Leaders in Neonatology
As a Level III NICU, UConn Health Waterbury Hospital offers comprehensive services, including advanced respiratory support, sophisticated imaging, and access to a full range of pediatric subspecialists.

The unit is staffed by Connecticut Children’s board-certified neonatologists, along with a highly trained team of NICU nurses, advanced practice providers, and lactation counselors—all with specialized expertise in newborn care.

Conveniently located adjacent to Labor and Delivery, the NICU is designed to provide seamless access to care. The environment supports both advanced medical treatment and a quiet, healing space for newborns and their families. Each infant receives an individualized care plan developed in close partnership with parents.

Bonding and Family Support
We encourage parents to spend as much time as possible with their baby. Even when medical equipment is needed, most infants can be held. Parents are also encouraged to touch and comfort their baby while in an isolette.

Our team supports bonding through techniques such as kangaroo care—skin-to-skin contact that promotes stability and connection.

Transition Rooms
To help families prepare for discharge, private transition rooms are available for overnight stays. These rooms allow parents to care for their baby with the support of the NICU team before going home.