I want to become a NICU RN

Nurses General Nursing

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Specializes in PP, Pediatrics, Home Health.

Hello all my nursing friends!I am a RPN currently updating to my RN.I have always wanted to become a NICU RN after I am finished with the bridging program.I have a few questions though.How do I go about becoming a NICU RN?Do I need any special courses?Is there a specific CPR that I need because it is with babies?How difficult is the job(for those of you that are NICU nurses)?Any feedback would help me on my journey to becoming a NICU RN!:redpinkhe:nurse:

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Specializes in LTC, SICU,RNICU.

You will need PALS (ped advance life support). I do not work in NICU but I know people who do. From what I found out, you have to work your way up. Does the school you attend have clinicals at a children's hospital? I would try to get on at a postpartum floor or nursery if I couldn't get in NICU. Is there a large hospital near you with a NICU?

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Specializes in Hospital Education Coordinator.

probably no need to get anything other than your license first. Basic life support CPR from Am Heart (Healthcare Provider) covers babies and will get you in the door, but later the dept. may require STABLE, NRP or other courses. Employers do not expect new grads to have these. Also, I would not hire someone based on having those certs (new grads) since they really do not have the experience to put the concepts to work. Just saying.

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Specializes in PP, Pediatrics, Home Health.

Thanks for the tips!I am currently doing the class work components online and get to choose where I want to do my clinical requirements.I was hoping to get in to Sick Kids Hospital which is in Toronto, but the school told me that they have certain hospitals to choose from.I will put in a request that I do want work on a pediatrics floor, or postpartum.I do already have postpartum from my RPN pregrad clinical.I know I will have to work my way up in order to have a job as a NICU nurse.I just am really excited to do that someday!I love babies and I love a challenge!

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Specializes in ED, Pedi Vasc access, Paramedic serving 6 towns.
You will need PALS (ped advance life support). I do not work in NICU but I know people who do. From what I found out, you have to work your way up. Does the school you attend have clinicals at a children's hospital? I would try to get on at a postpartum floor or nursery if I couldn't get in NICU. Is there a large hospital near you with a NICU?

Actually you need NRP (neonatal recusitation program) not PALS. NRP is geared specifically to the neonate.

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