Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

Home > Maternity > Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

About Our Service

At our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, we understand that every baby and every family’s journey is unique. Our highly skilled, dedicated and compassionate team is here around the clock to provide the very best care for your baby - whether they need a little extra help or more intensive medical support. We use the most modern and advanced technology and also provide a regional and national neonatal service for premature infants born in other hospitals, and babies with complex conditions.

If there is a risk that your baby might be premature or unwell, we encourage you to visit the Neonatal Unit in advance - this can be invaluable in alleviating the stress associated with unfamiliar surroundings if your baby needs to be admitted.

Our NICU

Between 15-20 per cent of newborn infants need to be admitted to the Neonatal Unit. Many babies are small and/or premature and require support with breathing and/or feeding. Depending on the reason for admission, your baby may stay for a few hours, some days or even weeks or months.

Our care doesn’t stop with your baby. We’re here for your too. From the moment you arrive, we’ll work closely with you to ensure you feel informed, involved and supported every step of the way. Parents are an essential part of our care team - your touch, your voice and your presence make all the difference.

Our unit is designed to feel calm, welcoming and family-focused. We encourage you to be as close to your baby as possible, and we’ll guide you through everything from feeding and comforting to understanding your baby’s treatment plan.

“As time went on, Luna went from strength to strength. She was moved from the NICU to HDU and eventually SCBU. The staff in each of these were nothing short of superheroes. The six weeks Luna spent in the NICU were the most worrying, terrifying and traumatising weeks of our lives however the staff of The Coombe made it that bit easier. They involved us in Luna’s care as much as possible, they lifted us up with reassuring words, they were only a phone call away when we’d pop home and they always went the extra mile when it came to to making special moments and memories for us, such as Luna’s first bath. They taught us so much and we will be forever grateful for them.”

Nicola - Luna’s Mum

Our NICU Team

Our strength lies in our multidisciplinary team, who work together to give every baby the best possible start.

Our team includes:

  • Neonatologists and nurses, paediatric ophthalmologists and cardiologists, a NIDCAP specialist nurse, speech and language therapist, occupational therapist, specialised NICU lactation consultants, dietitians, healthcare assistants and physiotherapists.

Breastfeeding Premature & Sick Babies

Breastmilk can be very beneficial to premature and sick babies. We have developed a series of videos especially for women who experience, or are at risk of, a preterm birth. Topics covered in these videos include: the benefits of breastfeeding for premature and sick babies, expressing breast milk, boosting milk supply and premature babies’ journey to exclusive breastfeeding.

Learn more

FAQs

  • Unfortunately we do not have accommodation on site, however accommodation is available off site via Friends Of The Coombe.

  • Visiting is restricted to parents and grandparents only.

Patient Experience

Every patient’s path to diagnosis and treatment is individual. No matter your specific journey, we believe in empowering you to take an active role in your healthcare.

Learn more

Departments & Services

Help & Support

  • Appointments:
    All appointments can be directed through Hospital reception: 01 408 5200, 24 hours a day

  • Health Insurance:
    We operate a direct payment scheme with VHI, Laya Healthcare, Irish Life Health, Garda Medical Aid, ESB, Medical Provident Fund, and Prison Officers Medical Aid. If you are covered by any of these insurers, the relevant insurance forms are signed electronically on your admission to hospital.

    Fees:
    For more information on Fees - visit our Hospital Charges page

  • The Resource Page:
    Browse our collection of patient resources, brochures, and information leaflets—all in one place. Downloadable and easy to access, these documents cover everything from appointments and procedures to maternity, newborn care, and more.

    Resource Page

Contact Us

Tel: 01 408 5200

Find Us

The Coombe Hospital

Getting Here >

Switchboard:


Location:

Cork St, Dublin, D08 XW7X