Neonatal Care Unit

A neonatal care unit is the part of a Sickbay, Infirmary, or hospital that is responsible for the health and welfare of newborns for the first 28 days of life. They are equipped to birth and treat the offspring of numerous species. Newborns are checked to make sure their bio-functions all fall within accepted parameters and that they are free from any diseases or injuries not discovered during pregnancy. Care for healthy offspring terminates upon the mother's recovery from birth and discharge, unless non-medical situations intervene (such as adoption, surrogate motherhood, etc.). Babies born premature or sickly are given around-the-clock care by medical personnel that are trained in the neonatal specialities of many species.

These units may or may not comprise part of the Maternity Ward, but typically consist of an intensive care unit, a nursery, delivery rooms, and medical labs. Stations and dedicated medical ships like the Olympic class may also have a specialized neonatal surgical suite attached as well.