Can working as a L/D tech...

[ThePrincessBride, MSN, RN, NP]

Can working as a L/D tech help open doors into NICU? I have tried so hard to get a NICU job, but they are so hard to get! I have accepted a L/D tech job that will also allow me to work as a unit clerk in the NICU (on some days). I really want to become a NICU Nurse (Practitioner), but I feel like it is out of my reach.

Did I make a mistake accepting the L/D tech job and not holding out for a NICU position? I will be working mostly with pregnant women and not so much with the babies, much to my disappointment.

[Humbled_Nurse]

I think you most definitely made the right decision. Any experience is better than none. I know the job market for new grads is really tough right now especially for specialty areas like NICU. I think your experience as an L&D tech will be very valuable. Do they have a lot of high risk deliveries. If yes, then you will likely see the NICU team in action. NICU usually attends all preterm and high risk births. I think this experience will look great on your resume. If something opens up in NICU in the meantime you can always request a transfer.

[ThePrincessBride, MSN, RN, NP]

Hi there,

Thanks for your response. I do have some experience in Ortho and med-surg as a nurse's aide, and I agree that having any experience is better than none. I just hope that, when I graduate, I will be able to find a job in the NICU.