The purpose of this study is to describe the implantation process through the 1980's for the neonatal intensive care unit in Florianopolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil, as well as to present its relevance for at-risk newborn care. This is a qualitative research with a socio-historical approach. The context of the study was the Joana de Gusmão Children's Hospital. Those interviewed for this study were 13 health professionals who had a role in implanting the unit. The data was analyzed through theoretical reference. The results indicate that this unit represents a milestone in Santa Catarina neonatal intensive care and the professionals who contributed to the deployment and implementation of care there were fundamental to the institution of newborn care knowledge and practice. We conclude that the need for specialized care was the major propellant for the creation of the neonatal intensive care unit and the construction of professional newborn care knowledge.
Intensive Care Units Neonatal; Newborn; Hospital; History