From NICU to school nurse

[nurseinFL2567]

So I am interested in school nursing. I love kids but have quickly realized that hospital nursing is not for me. I am a new grad currently working in the neonatal ICU and I am planning on staying a year in order to get the RN experience required for school nursing. I was wondering if having experience in the NICU is good for switching to school nursing or will it be looked down upon because it is nursing with babies instead of school age kids? Or will they really care just as long as I have RN experience?

[Curious1alwys, BSN, RN]

As you can see many of us have med surg or tele adult experience so I think it matters little. Depends on the opportunity. Good Luck to you!

[OldDude]

I would consider that experience a positive attribute; since those little squirts can't tell you what's wrong and their life depends on your assessment abilities and critical thinking skills. That experience and confidence would dovetail well into the pediatric population. That's my opinion.

[fetch, BSN, RN]

I would consider that experience a positive attribute; since those little squirts can't tell you what's wrong and their life depends on your assessment abilities and critical thinking skills. That experience and confidence would dovetail well into the pediatric population. That's my opinion.

And make sure when you interview or write your cover letter, you emphasize that!

I say this to everyone, but -- if your schedule allows, see about picking up a few days a week as a sub nurse in your district. As a new grad, with only NICU experience, getting your foot in the door like that can really help. Best of luck!!

[SassyTachyRN]

We have several nurses in our district who are former NICU nurses.

[Jolie, BSN]

I was hired in part because of my extensive NICU background. More and more former preemies and medically fragile children are entering school than ever before, often with residual health care needs. Our district has become known for excellent special education services, a reputation that is well deserved. It has created an influx of families who move here so that their children may have access to our programs, and has created a significant population of children with health needs demanding the expertise of a nurse with a NICU/PICU background.

Best of luck to you!