What monitoring equipment is used in the NICU?
NICUs are equipped with complex machines and monitoring devices designed for the unique needs of tiny babies. There are mechanical ventilators (breathing machines), oxygen, medications, and supplies for medical care. Furthermore, there is technology to monitor nearly every system of a baby’s body including body temperature, heart rate, breathing, oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, and blood pressure. The following list includes some of the monitoring equipment often used in the NICU: • heart or cardiorespiratory monitor This monitor displays a baby’s heart and breathing rates and patterns on a screen. Wires from the monitor are attached to adhesive patches on the skin of the baby’s chest, abdomen, and leg. • blood pressure monitor Blood pressure is measured using a small cuff placed around the baby’s upper arm or leg. Periodically, a blood pressure monitor pumps up the cuff and measures the level of blood pressure. Some babies need continuous blood pressure monitoring. This can be done
