From adult ICU to NICU????

Paul'in'FL · Sep 25, 2012

I would look hard and decide if you are acting out of FEAR or because you really like NICU. Running to a change is different from running away from something. If you can handle ICU, you can handle anything you want....just be sure of what it is that you do actually want.

llg, PhD, RN · Sep 25, 2012

I totally agree with Paul'in'FL. Figure out where you heart actually lies.

I spent 14 years coordinating orientation in a couple of different NICU's. NICU is a very hard unit to transition into because it is so different. That's as true for adult ICU nurses as it is for anybody. Some things they pay a lot of attention to in adult ICU's just aren't done in NICU's -- and the overall cultures tend to be very different. You'll need to be prepared to let go of many of the things that you now use to give yourself a sense of security in your practice -- and learn a whole new ballgame.

Do you want it bad enough to do to that? ... to stick with it even when the going gets tough -- and it may be tough in ways you don't anticipate. If not, then maybe it would be best if you stayed in the adult world.

But some people are just NICU people -- and they won't be happy anywhere else. If you are one of those people, then by all means give it a try. Life is too short not to be happy in your work.

Notkathy · Sep 25, 2012

Thank you guys! There is a tad bit of fear in staying; that is true. But I did want to do nicu when I graduated and there were just no jobs available. I'm trying to schedule a job shadow day before I seriously consider leaving my current position.

llg, PhD, RN · Sep 26, 2012

Shadowing sounds like a good idea.

Good luck.