I haven't seen this anywhere, so I thought I'd ask. I start a LPN/LVN program very soon and am very happy I finally have 'figured out what I want to be when I grow up:wink2:' (this after graduating with a degree in Paralegal Studies---ah well, it's never too late to know which road to truly feel comfortable on!)
That being said, I would like to one day work either in the hospital nursery or one day, the NICU. I do understand that there is going to be a long road ahead with training needed....my question is are those type jobs open only for RN's or are LPN's employed in that arena?
Thank you in advance for replying and letting me ask my question, even if goofy!
I started out as a tech in the PCU/ICU of my hospital. After graduating from LPN school, I was hired on. I take mainly PCU pts but recently have begun training to take on CCU pts. I will add that I will start the transitional RN program in June. At our hospital, LPN's do not work in L&D but they do take care of post partum moms and any type of Gyno surgeries.
At least 3 Hospitals in my area of Southern Iowa have want adds for LPN's with 1yr experience in Obstetrics, so yes, LPN's do work in maternity wards, however, I believe NICU is RN preferred.
I started to work in NICU as a brand new GVN, and was hired prior to completing my program. I was cross trained to L&D, and worked NICU and L&D in San Antonio, Dallas, Plano I worked L&D in San Antonio, and South Carolina.
I have worked ICU/CCU/MICU/SICU/ER at county, private and community and military hospitals.
I am very glad I started out as an LVN in Texas, and not some of the other states that are more restrictive.
I agree though if you plan to stay in nursing, you really should get your RN, but if you feel you would be compete in the NICU, go where there is a need until you are able to complete your education.
Every nurse should strive to continue to educate themselves no matter what area of the profession they are working in! Continue to take courses, CEU's, training etc, as nursing as in anything, continues to evolve.
spider11
74 Posts
I started out as a tech in the PCU/ICU of my hospital. After graduating from LPN school, I was hired on. I take mainly PCU pts but recently have begun training to take on CCU pts. I will add that I will start the transitional RN program in June. At our hospital, LPN's do not work in L&D but they do take care of post partum moms and any type of Gyno surgeries.