A baby lying down in UVA'a NICU.

Neonatology: Critical Care for Infants (NICU)

COVID-19 Service Changes

Our NICU is the region’s most advanced neonatal intensive care unit, and it's nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report.

At our 50+ bed unit, on the hospital's 7th floor, we:

  • Diagnose and treat premature and sick newborns
  • Stabilize newborns with life-threatening conditions
  • Treat infections and breathing problems
  • Coordinate infant care with surgical or other complex needs

UVA Health Children's comprehensive Fetal Heart Program means mothers with at-risk babies can deliver in the same hospital where their little ones will receive care.

Newsweek has recognized our newborn and maternity care by naming us to its Best Maternity Hospitals 2022 list. Hospitals on this list are noted for providing the highest-quality care for newborns and mothers.

Our years of experience and ongoing training prepare us to be there for you and your child.

Before & After Birth: Care That Connects

The birth of a baby is an exciting and joyful time, but sometimes unexpected and serious complications arise during pregnancy that requires specialized care. Our OB-GYN specialists provide prenatal care for high-risk pregnancies. Our experts in maternal-fetal medicine and neonatology work closely together to give you and your baby a seamless experience and care you can trust. 

After your baby is born, our NICU team helps you access UVA Health Children's specialists while providing compassionate and family-centered care. 

What to Expect in the NICU

The neonatal ICU at UVA Health Children's provides comprehensive services for newborns and their families. Meet the team and learn about the comprehensive care approach that is used at UVA. View NICU transcript.

The NICU Care Team

  • Neonatologists
  • Neonatal advanced practice providers (nurse practitioners and physician assistants)
  • Infant educators
  • Respiratory therapists
  • Occupational and physical therapists
  • Infant speech and language pathologists
  • Breastfeeding consultants
  • Social workers and chaplains
  • Child life specialists, to help families cope with hospitalization
Best Children's Hospital U.S. News & World Report Badge over image of UVA Children's hospital

World-Class Care for Our Tiniest Patients

Newborn and preemie care at UVA Health Children's is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as among the best in the country. We're also ranked the best children's hospital in Virginia for the 3rd year in a row. Trust our neonatology specialists to give your child world-class, nationally recognized care when they need it most.

How We Compare
Parenting in the NICU

Your infant's premature birth or serious medical complications can leave you feeling helpless, overwhelmed, and anxious. At UVA, we consider parents valuable members of their baby's healthcare team, and you participate in the medical rounds each day in the NICU. 

We're here to support you:

After the NICU

Care doesn't stop once your baby leaves the NICU. We continue assessments and checking your baby's progress as they transition into life at home through our Early Development Clinic

take a tour of the NICU

Tour the NICU

If you know you’ll need our NICU services ahead of time, you can meet with a neonatologist and tour the NICU before your baby is born.

Call 434.924.2335