UK neonatal intensive care services in 1996

A census of activity and staff levels in 1996 was conducted in UK neonatal units and achieved a 100% response from 246 units. Among the 186 neonatal i ntensive care units, the median (interquartile range) number of total cots was 18(14-22); level I intensive care cots 4(2-6);total admissions 318(262- 405); very low birthweight admissions 40(28-68); and the number ventilated or given CPAP by endotracheal tube 52(32-83). Forty six (25%) intensive car e units lacked the recommended minimum of one consultant with prime respons ibility for neonatal medicine. As a conservative estimate 79% of intensive care units had a lower nursing provision than that recommended in previousl y published guidelines. There was substantial variation in activity and sta ffing levels among units.