What Is a Baby Nurse Called?

Titles of Baby Nurses

• A baby nurse is a nurse who takes care of newborns or infants. Baby nurses, depending on where they work, also are known as newborn specialists, maternity nurses and night nannies. Regardless of the title, the function of a baby nurse is virtually the same.

Training/Role of a Baby Nurse

• A baby nurse who works in a maternity ward may be a registered nurse, but this is not always the case. All types of baby nurses have training in newborn and infant care. This means that although they may not be trained in certain medical procedures, baby nurses can tend to the basic care of the baby or babies. Their main role is caregiving rather than medical provision.

Responsibilities of Baby Nurses

• Baby nurses complete many tasks in their work day. They are responsible for changing and soothing the baby, feeding the baby or bringing the baby to the mother to feed, and making sure that the baby is safe. They therefore work closely with the mother or both parents, as well as any other members of the maternity ward (if applicable). Baby nurses also provide help to the mother after delivery, such as helping the mother to begin breastfeeding or tending to the baby while the mother sleeps. Some nurses who work in private homes also may provide services such as doing laundry or cooking meals so that the parents do not have to do so while they adjust to the newborn.

Work Hours of Baby Nurses

• The amount of time that a baby nurse works varies depending on the work setting. Baby nurses can work in hospitals, but they also can work in private homes. They therefore can work shifts that are eight to 12 hours, or they may work in 24-hour rotations with another baby nurse.

Salary of Baby Nurses

• The salary of a baby nurse varies depending on the work setting and the number of babies that the baby nurse is hired to watch. On average, baby nurses can make between $25 and $35 per hour. If multiples such as twins or triplets need care, then the baby nurse can make more because of the extra work involved in watching more than one baby.

Misuse of Titles

• While it used to be commonplace for a nanny to use the term "baby nurse" even if they did not have any medical training, the term, when related to nannies, has been changed to "newborn care specialist." The use of the term "nurse" is not acceptable for nannies because under the law only a licensed nurse may hold the title of nurse.