Monitors and Alarms
All infants in the NICU have monitors that continuously track their heart rate, respiratory rate, and the amount of oxygen in their blood. The probes on these monitors are very sensitive and may alarm with movement. They will also alarm if the infant’s heart rate, respiratory rate, or oxygen saturation briefly falls outside the normal limits. These alarms are different from the alarm sound of a true emergency. As your baby grows and becomes healthier, your nurse may give your baby time to adjust naturally before taking medical measures when an alarm is sounding. Your baby’s nurse is very familiar with the different alarms and will know when it is necessary to go to the bedside and check on the infant. Please feel free to ask them to explain the different sounds.
EKG Monitor
This monitor records your baby’s heart rate and respiratory rate by using three wires with probes that can be placed on the skin. If an infant’s heart rate or respiratory rate is too fast or too slow, an alarm will sound to alert the staff.
Pulse Oximeter
This equipment measures the level of oxygen in the blood; also referred to as oxygen saturation. A probe (similar to an adhesive bandage) is placed on the infant’s hand or foot. A red glow lets you know it’s working. The heart rate is also monitored with the oxygen saturation. As with the EKG monitor, an alarm will sound if the infant’s oxygen saturation falls outside the normal limits.
There is a central monitor that provides continuous information on all the infants in the pod. This is another way for the nurse to know how your baby is doing. Remember, if the nurse doesn’t look worried, you needn’t worry.
Staff will make every effort to silence alarms promptly. For your baby's safety, we ask that parents do not touch or adjust the monitors and other equipment.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to substitute or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your child's physician. The content provided on this page is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your child's physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition.
Reviewed on: 6/2024