advice for undergrad student

[future_neonatal_NP]

Hi my name is angel and I am currently a soph. in undergrad. I don't know if this question has been asked already (if so, i apologize) but I want to be a neonatal nurse and wanted to know how many years of training you have to have in order to work in the NICU. I know I have to graduate from undergrad. (duh), but where do I go from there? Nursing school... Grad. school... I'm the first one in my family to go to college, so I have no idea! Your advice would be greatly appreciated.

[lmcnabbkv]

I would say if you can find a good new-grad RN program in the NICU after graduation go for it! (Are you going for your BSN??) If you truly know what you want to do and what area you want to work in don't let anyone tell you that you need to do med-surg first. I recently graduated and I have taken a position in a new-grad program for the NICU. As long as the hospital you work for gives good orientation etc. it is totally possible to get a job right out of school. I think this somewhat depends on the area of the country however as some places seem to have a greater shortage of nurses! GOOD LUCK!! Your degree will be well worth it!

[future_neonatal_NP]

thanks! :)

[jdee]

I am a nursing student that will graduate in May with my BSN. I already work in an NICU, and have all 4 years. If you can, try to get your foot in the door. Try to get into a tech role once you are in nursing school. It will be beneficial.

[future_neonatal_NP]

thanks for the advice!