Neonatal special care

Some newborn babies need extra care, particularly during the first month after their birth. They might have been born prematurely or are unwell and need specialised medical support within a dedicated care unit or neonatal nursery.

Parents tenderly touching their newborn baby

We know that few things in life are as stressful as being the parent of a sick or premature baby. Our caregivers are well trained in neonatal special care and are dedicated to helping your baby’s health improve, so they can be discharged as soon as possible.

Specialist neonatal care

Should your baby need extra support, we provide Perth’s only private onsite 24/7 specialist neonatal care delivered by neonatal paediatricians and specialist nurses.

Our onsite neonatal unit provides leading care for premature babies from 30 weeks, including those who may require ventilation.

Main reasons for a baby needing neonatal special care

Prematurity (born at less than 37 weeks gestation)
Respiratory (breathing) problems
Infection
Temperature instability (too cold or too warm)
Jaundice
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level)
Surgery
Congenital abnormalities (birth defects)

Caring for your baby

Many highly qualified medical professionals are involved in the care of babies admitted to the neonatal unit. Those caring for your baby in one of our neonatal units will include:

neonatal paediatricians - who will review your baby’s condition every day and consult with other paediatric specialists where required
highly trained nurses – who have expertise in the care of babies requiring neonatal care
allied health professionals – including radiographers, ultrasonographers, social workers, pharmacists, dietitians and physiotherapists
additional members of our neonatal units – such as ward clerks, radiographers, social workers, pharmacists, child health liaison staff and pastoral care
and of course, you, the baby’s parents – we encourage your involvement in your baby’s experience in the neonatal care unit as much as possible, and your baby’s nurses and paediatricians are there to answer any questions or concerns you might have.

Neonatal readmission unit

St John of God Subiaco Hospital has a readmission from home unit to admit babies up to three months corrected age.

Common reasons for admission include:

neonatal surgery
failure to thrive
feeding issues
weight loss
infection
jaundice.

Your general practitioner can provide a referral if they need to come to the unit.