Organization of neonatal unit: Nurses role

Neonatal care was extensively studied and recorded as early as 1907 and neonatal units concept implemented by 1979 which is what neonatologists and neonatal nurses around the world practice today. The organization of a good quality special care neonatal unit (SCNU) is essential for reducing the neonatal mortality and of life among the survivors it is in terms of physical set-up, equipments or personnel. The neonatal nurses have a lot of scope for input into NICU as they spend most of their time caring for the neonates in the NICU. The roles are ever-evolving with the infant and his family at the core which are discussed. In addition to the nurses, the family members of infants are also an important part of the team caring for the infant. The current scenario of neonatal units in India is not excellent but neither is it too dismal. Rapid progress is being made mostly due to the catalyzing efforts of the NNF. In the near future, not only will there be more advancement of technology and knowledge but the grassroots level workers and community leaders are expected to take the neonatal care to the people. There is also scope for more specialization for the neonatal nurse.