anyone work at CHOP or any other NICUs in Phila area?

[doglvr]

Hello All,

I'm graduating from nursing school in May and was wondering if there was anyone out there who works at CHOP or any other NICU in Philly. This past summer I worked in L&D as a nurse extern and learned so much, but currently I'm leaning towards working in the NICU. I'm assuming that getting a job right out of school in the NICU is difficult, because it is a unit many people want to work on (or at least I would think!) So when do you think I should apply by? I want to get my application in early, but not too early! Do you think I have a good chance or getting a job in the NICU? I've heard CHOP doesn't pay all that great, but it's the best ranked the best hospital for neonatology so I would be honored to begin my career there! Let me know your thoughts! Thanks!

[MeggaRN]

Just wondering if there is anyone currently looking into NICU at CHOP.

I'm really hoping to have a shot at a job there.

Any tips or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!! :)

[gudiarani, BSN, MSN, DNP, RN, NP]

Good Luck. I interviewed there over a year ago and wasn't hired because they "wanted someone with more experience." They knew I was a new grad and from Hopkins at that (#4 nursing school in the country). Sorry, I'm a little bitter about it. Plus theyre a little stuck up there.

The facility is gorgeous though. Probably a great place to work. I hope you have some luck!

[TakingCareOfBabies]

CHOP really isn't all its cracked up to be. Don't limit yourself. Go to a unit that will value you and what you can bring to the unit as well as a unit that will teach you and help grow as a nurse. I'm not saying CHOP won't do that.... but there are other great NICU units out there. I worked at one in the Philadelphia area that I thought was a great unit. But now that I am at a different unit, I am aware of how much better units can be. I'm thankful for the experience that I got at the NICU, but so much thankful for having found this Unit that fits me much better .I feel they truly value thier kiddos as more than just patients at my new unit. They see them as babies, as someone's daughter/son, as a person who deserves quality care at all times.