The average length-of-stay for a premature baby is 17 days, but can be as long as three months. The smallest of patients come in at 24-weeks-old and weigh a mere one pound, nine ounces and they often have to battle infection, respiratory distress, head bleeds, and long-term developmental problems.

Overall in this unit, there are about 70 full-time and part-time RNs and 25 per diem staff nurses. On a daily basis, about 16 neonatal and critical care nurses are on duty in the NICU, caring for the premature babies.

Pictured (l-r): Kate Moyer, Molly DeCock, Michele Simpson, and Valerie Shaw, MS, RN

Photo Credit: Susanne Hartman