Singapore General Hospital will NEVER ask you to transfer money over a call. If in doubt, call the 24/7 ScamShield helpline at 1799, or visit the ScamShield website at www.scamshield.gov.sg.

Help Us Improve Your Experience:

We’d love to hear from you! Rate the SGH website and share your feedback so we can enhance your online experience and serve you better. Click here to rate us

Caring for Your Baby in the Neonatal Unit

Synonym(s):

 

When a newborn baby needs closer monitoring or specialised medical support, care may take place in the Neonatal Unit. Our team is here to provide skilled, compassionate care while supporting you and your family every step of the way.

Depending on your baby’s condition and needs, care may be provided in the High Dependency (HD) Unit or the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

 

Feature

High Dependency  
Level 2 Care

Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)  
Level 3 Care

Level of Care

Close monitoring and observation 

Highest level of intensive care 

Baby’s Condition

  • Stable 
  • Mild health concerns 
  • Premature 
  • Critically ill 
  • Complex conditions 

Common Treatments 

  • Oxygen therapy 
  • Phototherapy 
  • Tube feeding 
  • Observation 
  • Invasive/Non-invasive ventilation Surgery 
  • IV nutrition 
  • Complex treatments 

Parent Involvement

  • Parents are encouraged to hands on as they prepare to bring baby home 
  • Active participation with nurses’ guidance 

 

Family‑Centred Care

Whether your baby is cared for in the HD Unit or NICU, family‑centred care is at the heart of what we do.

You are not just a visitor — you are an essential part of your baby’s growth and recovery.

Our care team will support and guide you as you participate in your baby’s care whenever possible.

Supporting Families in the Neonatal Unit

At times, visitation may be temporarily restricted due to admission needs or medical procedures. During these moments, we provide facilities to support families:

  • Seating areas for parents and grandparents near the reception counter
  • Lockers for safekeeping of personal belongings
  • Water cooler for visitors
  • Educational videos displayed on screen, covering topics such as breastfeeding, premature birth and neonatal procedures

For the safety of all babies:

  • Visitors are advised not to visit when feeling unwell
  • Hand hygiene reminders are displayed, and alcohol‑based hand rub should be used before entering the Neonatal Unit

Our Commitment to You and Your Baby

Our multidisciplinary team of doctors, nurses and allied health professionals is committed to providing safe, compassionate and developmentally supportive care — while walking this journey with you and your family.

You may be interested in: