THE Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has experienced a significant increase in twin births this year, caring for 17 sets of twins so far. July 2024 saw five sets of twins admitted to the NICU, followed by three sets in August, and two already in September.

This trend of multiple births highlights the essential role the NICU plays in providing specialised care to premature and critically ill newborns.

Since its opening in 2012, the NICU has evolved from modest beginnings, where neonates were housed in wooden boxes with overhead bulbs as warmers, into a state-of-the-art facility with advanced incubators, ventilators, and radiant warmers.

Dr. Natasha France, one of GPHC’s gynaecologists, humorously remarked, “It must be something in the water,” as the hospital celebrates the new lives and the dedication of the NICU team.

The NICU, which recently expanded from a 15-bed to an 18-bed unit, also includes a step-down area with 25 beds for babies transitioning out of intensive care. The unit provides care for infants born as early as 28 weeks and weighing over 1,000 grams, with stays ranging from a few days to several months.

The NICU team is made up of four consultants, two senior registrars, three registrars, two General Medical Officers (GMOs), paediatric residents, and rotating medical interns. The nursing staff, consisting of Registered Nurses (RNs) with specialised neonatal training, works closely with these professionals to ensure the best outcomes for their tiny patients.

In addition to delivering critical care, the NICU runs a Neonatal Intensive Care Programme in collaboration with the University of Guyana, training the next generation of neonatal specialists through GPHC’s Institute of Health Science Education (IHSE).

GPHC’s NICU remains at the forefront of neonatal care, continually advancing the health and well-being of Guyana’s newest and most vulnerable citizens. The team’s unwavering dedication ensures that these infants receive the care they need to thrive.