Maybe I'm crazy...

[neonatalRN]

I have kind of a strange question. As I have posted before, my son was in an NICU and recently died there. I am in nursing school, and I plan to go into NICU nursing. My son was in the NICU for 5 weeks, and I feel I became pretty close to some of his nurses. I have not seen them or spoken to them since he died, but I did send them cards. The thing is, I really miss them. They were really wonderful, amazing people, and I miss talking with them. I am wondering if I should or could try to contact them, whether it be writing a letter or going to visit, or if I should assume they would contact me if they wanted to keep in touch and I should just leave them alone.

What do you think? Have you had any former parents of babies who have died come back to visit? Or contact you? How did you feel about it? Have you kept in touch with any NICU parents?

I feel like I am crazy just for thinking about this, but I really do miss them.

Heidi

[Freeda]

I too know this is an old thread but I just want to say thank you to those of you who posted on it. I am a prospective nursing student (still in prerequisites) and mom of a baby currently in the NICU. The nurses there will never no how much they mean. I have spent the past three months there and they have been such a support to me. I know that I will never be able to thank them enough for going above and beyond, especially since I can't really share this whole experience with my close friends, as they are not allowed in the NICU. They have helped to make the past three months a little easier to bear.

[WalkingInTheRain]

Freeda I hope you and your child get better real soon :) Just hang in there and the best of luck to you and your family :)

[neonatalRN]

How strange that I saw this today! I have not been on the board in months. Thank you for all the responses. I did go and visit a couple of times, I had a couple of ultrasounds at the adjoining hospital. They were really happy to see me, and I also got to see my son's doctor who was there when he was delivered and when he died. Her daughter has the same condition Ethan had.

I am pregnant now, 27 weeks today! This is the reason I haven't been around for so long (that and nursing school!). I am just so nervous about this baby. The ultrasounds showed that she (it's a girl!) does not have OI, but it is still very nerve-wracking. I plan to bring the baby to visit Ethan's nurses and doctor after she is born.

I am getting an ADN degree, and really, really want to work in the NICU. I know that some of the NICU's around here take new grads, but I am not sure if they take ADN's or just BSN's. What do you think my chances are? I was thinking maybe I could call whoever does the hiring and ask... would that be a bad idea? Also to ask if there is anything I can do to better my chances.

Thanks,

Heidi

[Gompers, BSN, RN]

I am getting an ADN degree, and really, really want to work in the NICU. I know that some of the NICU's around here take new grads, but I am not sure if they take ADN's or just BSN's. What do you think my chances are? I was thinking maybe I could call whoever does the hiring and ask... would that be a bad idea? Also to ask if there is anything I can do to better my chances.

I don't think you should have a hard time getting a NICU job. My only advice would be to avoid working at the hospital where Ethan passed away. I think it's wonderful that your son's nurses inspired you to choose NICU.

Congratulations on your pregnancy - keep us posted!

:)

[prmenrs, RN]

I think you could ask the nurse managers in NICU's in your city whether they have new grad programs, prefer BSN's etc.

You will be a valuable addition to any NICU that hires you. I wish you well in your career--it won't be easy, there will be many reminders of your son, but that would be true in any case. So hang in there, OK?

Since Nurses Week is coming up in May, they would probably love it you sent them a nice card and some 'goodies'.

[soltera]

I have kind of a strange question. As I have posted before, my son was in an NICU and recently died there. I am in nursing school, and I plan to go into NICU nursing. My son was in the NICU for 5 weeks, and I feel I became pretty close to some of his nurses. I have not seen them or spoken to them since he died, but I did send them cards. The thing is, I really miss them. They were really wonderful, amazing people, and I miss talking with them. I am wondering if I should or could try to contact them, whether it be writing a letter or going to visit, or if I should assume they would contact me if they wanted to keep in touch and I should just leave them alone.

What do you think? Have you had any former parents of babies who have died come back to visit? Or contact you? How did you feel about it? Have you kept in touch with any NICU parents?

I feel like I am crazy just for thinking about this, but I really do miss them.

Heidi

i don't think your crazy, go ahead and visit with them. if they didn't contact you before it's probably because you know how busy things can get. sorry for your loss.

[neonatalRN]

prmenrs, that is a very good idea!

[Freeda]

I am happy to say I have not been on the boards in a while because I have finally brought my little premie home. He is doing great. He's stil on O's but the doctor says we will be off soon. He has been gaining weight and eating alot since he's been home.

[Shed13911]

Heidi,

I am so glad to hear about your new little girl that is coming. I know it is still a few weeks before she will arrive but please keep us posted on how you are doing. I worked a step-down NICU and floated to NICU when they needed me. I think most nurses love to hear from Moms after they have cared for your child. It is a difficult situation and nurses don't forget you just because your child is no longer there. They would also love to hear about your new arrival that is on the way. Good luck to you as you certainly deserve it!

Freeda,

I am glad to hear your little one is finally home and doing well. Enjoy him, he will grow much too fast! :) Please keep us posted on how you both are doing!!