The NICU Dictionary: Medical Terms Every New NICU Parent Should Know

Walking into the NICU for the first time can feel overwhelming. From medical terminology and breathing support to feeding tubes and monitors, there is so much for new parents to learn. As both a NICU nurse and a NICU mom, I’m breaking down common NICU terms and abbreviations to help families better understand their baby’s care, ask questions, and feel more confident navigating the NICU journey.