Med/Surg to NICU RN

Nurses General Nursing

Published

Hello,

I worked on a medical surgical unit for almost 3 years. Recently I decided I wanted a change and applied for a NICU position, I have thought this is what I wanted to do since nursing school. However, now that I am orienting in the NICU I am having second thoughts. My gut is almost telling me its not for me, even though I have always dreamed of it. I miss the patient interaction of Med/Surg. And surprisingly I miss working with adults and building relationships with them. Am I crazy?? I am not sure if I just need more time to adjust or if my gut really is telling me what I should do. I would hate to keep having them orient me if I already know it may not be for me.

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Specializes in Neuro ICU and Med Surg.

Maybe it is trouble adjusting. One of my former coworkers left our adult Neuro ICU position due to a shoulder injury that prevented her from lifting. She went to the NICU and really likes it. She did say she misses adult patients at times, but overall she really likes. You can build a relationship with the baby's parents.

I'm not sure what to tell you I have only worked with adults. Possibly give it more time and if you still feel this way then speak up.

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Specializes in NICU.

I went from medical to NICU. I do miss my adult patients but I get a decent amount of interaction with the parents, which keeps me satisfied. How is your orientation going otherwise? Is there anything else that is leading to the feeling that NICU might not be for you?

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Thanks for replying .. The orientation period is going really well. I'm learning a lot and everyone is nice and helpful. There are a few other life factors that are in play too.. I just found out in expecting. Which we are thrilled about but being pregnant and learning A whole new field is daunting, especially if I'm not 100% sure it's for me. The hours are different and I think nights are not for me either.. Probably a bad time to be switching to those .. But originally it was just my gut feeling of uncertainty with the fit .. Now those other factors are playing in as well

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