Question about employment at NICUs...

[ThePrincessBride, MSN, RN, NP]

I live in Columbus, Ohio, and we have some the largest NICU units and Children's hospitals in the nation. BUT, I have heard that getting a job in a NICU is very difficult.

How hard was it for you to get a job in the NICU? What are some ways to give yourself an "edge" over the competition?

[rockabye]

Well according to your post info, it says you are 19, so you have some time to plan. Here are some ways to give you an "edge".

- Try volunteering at those hospitals to see if you can help hold babies in NICU/Nursery

- Become a nurse aide and try getting a position in the NICU

- See if your nursing school has any extended clinicals in the NICU (more than the usual 1 day that most offer)

- Get really good grades in nursing school

- Research on your own time about NICU (there are many threads about good resources on this site). Having more knowledge about NICU will show your motivation to be a good NICU nurse.

- Attend job fairs at the hospital and hopefully you can get a chance to meet a NICU nurse manager and get their contact info.

- Look into joining a NICU association in your area (some may require you to be a current NICU nurse though).

[bethm7]

Good answer by Rockabye.

Biggest thing, if you are not already in nursing school try to go to a nursing school that does internships/externships with local hospitals with NICU's. If not definately try to get a job as an aide, secretary or any position in the local NICU you want to work. If you are a good employee most units like to hire from within.

I am of no other help. I got in as a new grad 12 years ago after working as an intern/co-op student at Boston childrens.

[NICU_babyRN, BSN, RN]

It's also to predict right now too because with the fluctuating economy it's hard to tell where "hiring" will go. For example, we have 12 unfilled RN positions in my unit. But we are not hiring anyone! It's cheaper to pay OT than it is to orient right now and we have no problems getting people to voluntarily work OT hours!

In a couple of year though this could all change and HOPEFULLY we'll be hiring again within the next 8-10 months!

With that being said, try to get a PNA position or volunteer in the Women's and Children's department. Even if you can't get to the NICU right away, get in to the hospital setting. Also show initiative in your clinicals! Talk to your instructors about your goals and study hard to show them you are serious.