Can you cross train between L&D and the NICU?

[JennaSnow]

Hello All

I am interested in both areas, but was curious to know if you can cross train between L&D and the NICU and float between the two areas. The hospital where I did my OB clinical rotation had the NICU right next to the L&D unit so it seems like something that could be possible. I am aware they are very different areas but I am considering going the CNM/WHNP route and thought both areas would be beneficial to gain experience in before applying. I am currently a senior at Adelphi graduating in December 2017.

Thank you for any replies!

[klone, MSN, RN]

Yes, conceivably one could. Our facility is an LDRP with a Level II NICU in the nursery, so there is a small group of nurses who are trained in both L&D and NICU.

In reality, I think it's likely very uncommon, and you would probably have a difficult time finding a facility that would allow you the opportunity to cross-train to both specialties.

[Cat365]

You might have a better chance at a midsized hospital. They tend to have less staff so their staff floats to other areas more. However from my observations NICU staff are very protective/possessive of their charges and floated staff were usually confined to feeding/doing minor care for feeder grower babies. If you were truly cross trained that might change.

I do know several nurses who started in one specialty and after a few years switched. They often kept a PRN job in the first specialty just to keep their skills current.

[BSNbeauty, BSN, RN]

We have a float pool of nurses that do all three: PP L and D and NICU. I couldn't do it.