Another new grad in the NICU

Specialties NICU

Published

I interviewed today for my DREAM job, NICU. And to my surprise, they're ready to hire me!!! I'm so excited, and even more nervous!! So, how do I prepare for this job? What are the best iPhone apps, text books, reference books, etc?? I could definitely use all the help and advice I can get!! Thanks everybody :)

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My best advice would be to always be open to learning!! Even the most seasoned nurses are always learning new things (even if they don't want To admit it).

If you aren't sure about something, ask someone! Too many times, I have saw new NI nurses mess up because they were afraid to ask-

I spent some time working in NICU, and It can be sad at times but at Times the most rewarding job.

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HI congrats on that...Just curious in what state that was?

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Specializes in Women's Surgical Oncology, MIU,MBU.

Congratulations!!! Wish you all the best. This is my dream position so its nice to see a new grad actually get the opportunity.

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Congratulations! I also just interviewed as a new grad in the NICU on Monday and peer interviewed yesterday...received the news this morning that I got the position! I am elated and beyond words excited! Would also appreciate any advice from veteran NICU nurses!

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Specializes in NICU.

I have been in NICU for 2 years and was hired as a new grad as well. First thing that comes to mind is to be sure you're not afraid to ask for help if you don't know something. There is nothing more dangerous than someone who is afraid to ask or clarify something for fear of looking stupid. Also, even if you think you see something suspicious (especially when it pertains to the gut) don't be afraid to notify your NNP, DCN and MD. Then, make sure to chart EVERYTHING in as much detail as possible, including the names of the people you told. Charting can really come in handy to save your butt and help the medical team better understand the course of events if something were to happen to your patient and they get really sick and/or pass away.

Also, like someone else said, it's important to be open to learning new things. Accept the fact that you will NEVER know everything and that it usually takes about 2 years to start feeling comfortable coming to work lol. I didn't think it would really take 2 years, but everyone told me otherwise... I agree!

Congrats! Working in the NICU is such a rewarding job. :)

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Specializes in Neonatal Intensive Care.
I interviewed today for my DREAM job, NICU. And to my surprise, they're ready to hire me!!! I'm so excited, and even more nervous!! So, how do I prepare for this job? What are the best iPhone apps, text books, reference books, etc?? I could definitely use all the help and advice I can get!! Thanks everybody :)

Congrats!!! I am also a new grad in NICU!

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I am a new grad in a level 3 NICU. I start Monday. I'm scared to death and excited to learn everything I can. This area is so specialized, I wish there was a seperate drug book just for neonate nurses to get familiar with. Feeling very intimidated!! :)

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Specializes in NICU, PICU, PACU.

Neofax is a med book just for NICU :)

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Congrats! For those that are new grads and received offers to work in the NICU, how did you do it? I just attended my orientation and the students from past cohorts told me it's near impossible to get a preceptorship in the NICU and that was my plan on having an in for when I graduate. I'm still going to try, but what would be my best route on ultimately landing a job in a Level III NICU straight after graduation?

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Congrats! I just started in the NICU myself! it's my dream job as well! I'm a few weeks in to orientation and I'm still scared and nervous and overwhelmed, how do you get past that feeling??? I'm always asking questions but still nervous and the staff doesn't always seem as understanding which makes it even harder

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