The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at The Children's Hospital at Saint Peter's University Hospital is a 54 bassinet, Level III unit that is part of New Jersey's first state-designated Regional Perinatal Center. More than 800 newborns are cared for by the NICU each year, with length of stay ranging from 1 to over 200 days. No matter the number of days in the unit, the impact is lasting.

The NICU team provides the most comprehensive neonatal care in the state for newborns and infants with medical or surgical problems and are continually recognized for the expert patient care provided. In 2020 and 2019, Saint Peter's was the only hospital in New Jersey to be ranked in the top 50 in Neonatology by U.S. News & World Report. The NICU has also been awarded the gold-level Beacon Award for Excellence, a national three-year award that marks a significant milestone on the path to exceptional patient care and achieving a healthy work environment.

Most recently, the NICU made national news when a couple whose son was being cared for in the NICU realized that their son's nurse, Lissa McGowan had cared for the father when he was in the NICU more than 30 years ago . The couple shared the pictures of Lissa holding both father and son on their social media accounts and it spread across the internet. The story was featured on ABC World News Tonight with David Muir, Good Morning America, and other news outlets. This is just one example of the dedication and commitment of Saint Peter's NICU staff.