ED nurse but want to be in NICU

[auson16]

Hello, I wanted to seek some advice on a recent job situation. I was recently employed as a new graduate in the emergency department. As a student, I spent time in an externship at this same hospital both in the ED and the NICU. I enjoyed both but absolutely loved the NICU. I applied for both, the ED called me quickly and I was hired quickly. After I accepted the position, I turned down an interview that was offered for the NICU. I thought the ED would be a great place to develop my adult skills for future endeavors. I am finding after extended time in the ED that I am still more passionate about the NICU. I know there are no perfect jobs, everywhere has their benefits and cons. Can anyone speak to the issue of being somewhere when your heart is somewhere else in nursing and where to go from there? Thanks!

[Lydia55]

I have been a NICU nurse for 30yrs. My first job was in the ED 40yrs ago. I have always been grateful for the ED experience. You will learn things there that will be useful wherever you go. I know that I can work anywhere and am not intimidated by new clinical challenges. You will develop critical thinking skills, the ability to prioritize, and learn how to work in a constantly changing environment while remaining calm. You will have the opportunity to develop excellent assessment skills, see every ailment and injury, learn the right questions to ask and learn how to deal with people from every walk of life when they are most vulnerable.

Many of my current coworkers have only worked with neonates and feel limited in their ability to change jobs. I think it is easier to go from the ED to NICU than the other way around. You will have the core skills necessary, you will just need to adjust the scale due to the size of your patients.

A good way to make yourself more attractive to NICU is to get experience with well babies. Perhaps the Women's Services nurse manager at your facility would allow you to pick up some shifts in WellBaby nursery. This would enable you to become acquainted with all the normal variables in newborns. If your ED doesn't already require it, become certified in NRP, neonatal resuscitation program. Breastfeeding is huge in NICUs. Take any continuing education courses offered in promoting breastfeeding. Present your ED experience as a good thing. Show you have a strong work ethic, can make decisions and work under pressure. Show you are eager to learn.

NICU is a great place to work and I wish you well in your efforts to end up there. If I were you I would stick with the ED for awhile longer while you prepare yourself for NICU. The knowledge you are gaining there will serve you well in your life in general. Good luck!