Certifications for NICU RN

babyNP., APRN · Jun 14, 2013

I recently graduated nursing school and my dream job is to work in a NICU. I'm just curious what certifications a nurse that works in a NICU can get. Thanks!

NRP and STABLE are things you can get without being a NICU RN, although you would have to do a lot of studying if you're not a NICU nurse since the concepts wouldn't be familiar to you. If you're gung-ho, I'd recommend getting the NRP done because it shows your commitment to managers to NICU nursing. I took it as a senior nursing student before I graduated and I believe it helped me land my very first nursing job in a tertiary center. Some people may say that there's no sense because it's something you'll appreciate later and find easier to grasp, but it's hard to get your foot in the door into NICU in some areas.

RNC and CCRN are certifications you can get after 1-2 years of NICU nursing.

Best of luck, keep us posted on how the job search goes.

KJM-RN, BSN · Jun 14, 2013

Thank you so much for the advice. I am definitely going to look into getting NRP, I was already thinking about doing ACLS, but since I REALLY want NICU, maybe my time and money would be better spent getting NRP. I have put in several applications into various NICU's in my area, but have my heart set on one hospital in particular. I have applied, contacted the nurse recruiter, and emailed the nurse manager to this NICU. I'm hoping I appear dedicated and receive a call. I know NICU may be hard to find a job in as a new grad so I am definitely willing to work in any department, nursing is interesting no matter where to me! Any other advice to get the attention of the NICU? I did volunteer in the mother/baby unit before nursing school for a year (the NICU volunteer positions were already filled at the time), I guess if I don't hear from any jobs over the summer I could try and volunteer in the NICU.

NicuGal, MSN, RN · Jun 14, 2013

Ask to shadow.