A day in the life of a Neonatologist

What is it?:

• Definition- that branch of pediatric medicine concerned with the newborn; the diagnosis and treatment of neonates
• They are trained specifically to handle the most complex and high risk situations
• It is a relativley new field

A typical day:

• Even though there is never a day where it is the exact same, each day is filled with challenges and opportunities including very high ups and really low downs
• Many will start there day fairly early in the morning and have to be ready to go
• They will take care of any emergencies and then look over any X-rays that need to be done
• Decision-making is based on the day-to-day course and outcomes of individual patients
• There will always be a thing called morning rounds that will allow thrainees and the doctors to recieve an update on their patients
• You will usually be caring for between 15 and 20 intensive care patients and their families
• There are babies who may have been one pound at birth, who are very sick, requiring lots of medicines, respiratory support and procedures and those who are now older and maturing to develop their suck and swallow reflex to eat successfully so that they can go home
• The most difficult part of this job is discussing the treatment of a seriously ill baby with the family. Most parents, even though they know their baby is terribly ill, have a lot of hope for their baby's future
• They all have to be able to think on our feet, make quick decisions and respond to emergencies

A baby in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit)