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Doi: 10.5902/2179769210252 Aims: to identify the nursing care provided to preterm infants in relation to possible complications. Method: qualitative study with nurses in Neonatal Intensive Care Units in the period of February to March 2010. A semi-structured questionnaire was used, with open and closed questions about activities and basic knowledge of the daily life of these professionals, analyzing the data through content analysis. Results: the statements of the interviewees revealed difficulty to accurately describe the care provided on a daily basis in the intensive environment and weakness in the assistance provided, even though the importance of scientific knowledge for the nursing practice is recognized. Final Considerations: it is necessary to implement programs of continuing education for this team, comprehending that professionals working in neonatal units, such as in other specialized units, assist clients with very peculiar characteristics, what requires specific skills and knowledge.