Giving shots and IVs.....

directcare4me · Sep 13, 2004

In your other post you mentioned that you are in high school. It's very possible that as more time goes by you might get over your "weak stomach". When I was in high school, I don't think I wanted to be anywhere around needles. I wasn't even thinking about being a nurse then, though. You are ahead of me there.

The thing is, if you are a neonatal nurse in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, you will have to start IV's, draw blood, and give some shots. It is part of what we do to make the babies well enough to go home. I don't like sticking babies with needles, it still bothers me after many years of doing it, but I DO like seeing the baby finally go home after being very sick.

I admire that you know what you want to do; and if this is what you are supposed to do, then you will find the strength to do it. You don't have to like starting IV's, (I don't) but know that it is something you have to do to help the baby.

Maybe you could visit an NICU for a day, and see what all goes on. Talk to the nurses; one thing about neonatal nursing--you will either love it or hate it. Good luck to you. :)

Heartfelt4Newborns · Sep 13, 2004

Thanks! I needed that!

directcare4me · Sep 13, 2004

Thanks! I needed that!

You're welcome.

There are many things about working as a nurse that I don't like, but I very much like taking care of critically ill newborns; I hope you'll like it too. Again, good luck.

BBnurse34 · Sep 16, 2004

As far as injections and IVs go: You will be well trained before you do them on your own, and you will understand why the procedures are important for the babe's wellbeing. Then, after a while, you will enjoy doing them because you will know that you are good at them and can do it without inflicting much discomfort.

maggiecheung · Sep 30, 2004

When you know the baby so dehydrated and not eating well (or throwing up all the times), you'll be glad to be able to start an IV and get the fluid running.