[Princess_WannaBe]

I was wondering if there are any positions for a LVN in the NICU? I am taking my prereqs now for my RN but have thought about going becoming a LVN to work sooner. I have a real interest in working in the NICU and wondered would I still be able to do that as a LVN or should I just wait it out and do the RN program.

[Fiona59]

Honestly, I've never seen an LPN in NICU. LPN's worked post partum. Some facilities use us in L&D as well.

Where I relocated to won't allow LPN's in maternity.

[avahsmiles]

Originally Posted by Fiona59

....Where I relocated to won't allow LPN's in maternity.

Hi fiona,
I remember you saying that you are now in BC right? I know that on vancouver island, in Victoria, LPN's are allowed to work in maternity, both pre & post partum. I had my last child @ vic general in 2003 and one of the nurses caring for me before & during delivery was an LPN. I just happened to notice her badge.

I guess it depends on the hospital.

[akcarmean]

As far as I know LPN are not allowed to work in NICU. At least they weren't allowed when my oldest son was there. I live in Illinois.

Angelia

[BittyBabyGrower]

We don't have any in our unit either. Most work either peds or postpartum.

[Jolie]

We staffed our step-down area with a mix of RNs and LPNs. The babies were typically grower/feeders without IV's. The LPNs could manage 02 therapy, bili lights, gavage feedings, DC teaching, etc.

[Fiona59]

Those were part of my duties in the nursery where I worked.


I think alot depends on where you practice as an LPN and what your interests are. I went through school with people who wanted to work in postpartum and the nursery more than anything else. After practicum they never wanted to be there again. I was the opposite, didn't want to that clinical at all. Couple of years later, I got a job there just for a change and loved it.

[KRVRN]

We have a handful of LVN's. They've been there a long time and have been grandfather in. I'm not sure how long ago the unit stopped hiring LVN's, but they only hire RN's now.