Ward 53 Neonatal Unit

Ward 53 is SGH’s Neonatal Unit, providing graduated levels of care for newborns based on their needs—Ward 53B (Nursery, Level 1), Ward 53D (High Dependency Unit, Level 2) and Ward 53E (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Level 3). This page explains what each area does, why a baby may be cared for there, and how parents can be involved throughout the stay.

Ward 53B Newborn Nursery, Level 1 Care

Ward 53D High Dependency, Level 2 Care

Waiting Area
Facilities
Layout
High Depedency Unit
High Depedency Unit Layout

Block 5 Level 3, alongside with Ward 53A

High Dependency Unit

The High Dependency Unit is for newborns who require extra care and monitoring but do not require the full intensive care of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Parents will be updated by the Neonatal Team doctors and nurses about your baby’s condition.

Special Care Nursery

Babies in the SCN are usually stable. Common reasons for SCN care include:

Babies born pre term ≤ 35 weeks
Require additional temperature support and monitoring
Mild breathing difficulties requiring oxygen support
Phototherapy with extra lights to help reduce higher jaundice levels
Close monitoring and observation after a complicated delivery
Observation for possible infection that may require 5 to 10 days of antibiotics
Babies with poor feeding or requiring tube feeding
Low glucose levels requiring IV glucose/electrolytes
Growing pre term babies

Parents are encouraged to be actively involved in their baby’s care.

Our team will guide you in feeding, cuddling, and bonding with your baby, and support you as you prepare for discharge home.

If you are entering the ward, ensure you observe these precautions.

Ward 53E Newborn Intensive Care Unit, Level 3 Care

Block 5 Level 3, alongside Ward 53A

The NICU is for newborns who need the highest level of care and constant monitoring.

Very premature babies (born before 32 weeks)
Babies with breathing issues who require use of ventilator (invasive and non-invasive)
Newborns requiring surgery or treatment for complex medical conditions
Critically ill babies who need life-supporting equipment

In the NICU, our specialised team uses advanced technology to support your baby’s growth and recovery.

Your First Days in the NICU

Entering the NICU for the first time can feel overwhelming with machines, tubes, and alarms.
These sounds don’t always mean something is wrong; our trained team monitors your baby continuously.
Over time, you’ll become familiar with the environment and feel more comfortable.
From day one, we encourage parents to participate in care when they are ready.
For babies born less than 32 weeks old, parents will receive the Milestone wagon, which is a general overview of your baby’s journey in the NICU to the day of their discharge.

Neonatal Milestone Wagon

Simple actions, like talking softly to your baby, can provide comfort, as your voice is the most familiar sound to them.
Parents and grandparents are encouraged to participate, especially if some mothers are unable to visit regularly during their first month of confinement.
As your baby grows and is clinically stable, kangaroo care is encouraged.
(link for kangaroo care information)
This supports weight gain, temperature regulation, breathing, and strengthens the bond between parent and baby.
Early involvement also helps you learn your baby’s personality, feeding cues, and health needs, building confidence for the transition home.

View below or download a copy.

More Resources

These short videos are designed to support parents of preterm babies as you prepare for the transition from hospital to home. They provide practical guidance on what to expect during your baby’s stay, how discharge planning is done, and how you can confidently care for your baby after going home—covering topics such as feeding and developmental care, follow-up appointments, and when to seek medical advice. You may watch them at your own pace and revisit them anytime.