Neonatology

What is Neonatology

Neonatology is one of the subspecialties of pediatrics which is concerned with the treatment and care of infants in the neonate stage, especially those born prematurely, with birth asphyxia, low birth weight, birth defects or are ill and in need of hospitalization. Special NICUs (Neonatal Intensive Care Units) are available in most hospitals for the care of such babies.

Neonatology courses come under the purview of medical science, and hence in order to work as a Neonatology professional, candidates must have completed a medical degree from a recognized college or university which has been approved by the Medical Council of India. During the completion of the course, candidates will be taught key concepts and aspects of the various conditions that infants suffer from and the various treatments that must be administered for various conditions.

Neonatology professionals undergo intense training and learning exercises during the completion of course to be able to handle various complicated situations as infants are highly likely to catch infections. The role of a neonatologist covers treatment of health conditions in unborn babies (during pregnancy), premature babies, as well as newly born babies. 

Eligibility Criteria (UG & PG) of Neonatology

A specialty in Neonatology can be studied at the postgraduate level, for which an MBBS degree is a prerequisite. 

Aspirants must meet the below criteria to qualify as a candidate for the various MBBS programs offered by medical schools in India:

• They must have completed their class 12 board examination with mandatory core subjects being Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.

• They must have acquired a minimum score of 55-60% in their 12th board examination (cut-off depending on the institute). 

Students who are aspiring to study DM (Doctor of Medicine) in Neonatology are eligible for the course if: 

• They have completed their class 12 board examination with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as the core subjects.

• They have successfully acquired an MBBS degree (Bachelor of Medicine) from a reputed institution or college.

Entrance Exams to Study Neonatology 

National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Postgraduate): The NEET is a national qualifying examination conducted for students aspiring to gain admission into medical programmes of their choice at the top government and private medical schools in India. 

• NEET UG: The NEET-UG is conducted at the undergraduate level for students who wish to pursue an MBBS in dental or medical courses.

• NEET PG: This is the NEET examination conducted specifically for postgraduate courses like Doctor of Medicine, Master of Surgery, or diploma courses.

• Diplomate of National Board Post-Diploma Centralised Entrance Test (DNB PDCET): The DNB PDCET is conducted as an online test by the National Board of Examinations as a prerequisite for candidates who wish to pursue post-diploma DNB (broad specialities) courses.

Required Skillset for Neonatology

Neonatologists are required to help mothers and their newborns in many ways, taking care of their needs at what can be the most vulnerable and crucial time during the childbirth process- immediately after the child is born.

In case of problem pregnancies, they may be required to consult with obstetricians, assist with deliveries, and devise postpartum care and treatment plans.

The work of a neonatology student is very delicate and sensitive, and therefore doctors in this specialty must have not only sufficient practice and expertise but also the right personality and specific skills for the job. Some of the most important skills for these doctors to possess include:

• Excellent Communication Skills- A large part of a Neonatologist’s work entails communicating sensitive information to their colleagues and patients, which calls for outstanding communication skills. They must know how to tactfully confer with the parents of an ill child about suspected issues while providing reassurance to alleviate their concerns. Sometimes, they are even required to convey serious, troubling information to the parents in which case the necessary compassion, empathy, and professionalism is important.

• Strong Leadership Abilities- Neonatologists are usually the head of or in charge of a neonatology team of professionals, including neonatal nurses and nurse practitioners, pharmacists, and other therapists. They must have strong leadership abilities and display excellent judgment, confidence, and problem-solving skills. Because the other neonatal healthcare professionals look to the Neonatologist for guidance and direction, it is important that the Neonatologist show dedication and commitment not only to patients but also to the team.

• Passionate About Helping Others- A passion for helping parents and their newborn kids, along with love for children, are essential for a career in Neonatology. Since they are first required to study Pediatrics, aspirants of Neonatology must be dedicated to the cause of helping children of all ages in ensuring their proper physical and mental health. Pediatricians should also enjoy community work that helps improve child welfare. Neonatologists sometimes have to address or participate in community education programs or professional workshops to train and educate others about neonatal issues, so they must be able to convey devotion and passion towards the cause of the betterment of the lives of parents and their newborns.

• Coping and Stress Management- A career as a Neonatologist, while rewarding, can also be very demanding and stressful. It can be physically and mentally taxing to deal with birth defects and critically ill newborns, while also comforting distraught parents. Especially for extended periods, it becomes exhausting to maintain professional boundaries while also putting up a caring demeanor. Therefore, to prevent burnout, neonatologists should have good stress management skills and perhaps a strong network of external support systems.