what is a good path to NICU nursing?

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Hi all,

I will be graduating in May 2008 from a RN program. I currently work as a nursing tech on a med-surg floor, but I have been thinking lately that my eventual goal is to work in the NICU. I understand that it's difficult for new grads to get a job as a NICU nurse, so I'm trying to move toward this goal before I graduate by scouting out the right tech opportunities that will get my foot in the door. I have currently applied for a tech position on an OB unit in a hospital that has a Level III NICU, hoping to get my foot in the door that way. But I'm wondering if I should also look for a tech opportunity in an adult ICU to get the critical care experience under my belt. Unfortunately I feel like I'm flying by the seat of my pants here, trying to cobble together a career path...

So...do you all have any suggestions on what kind of non-NICU tech work would help me pave the way toward NICU nursing? Also, any information on certifications/classes/other education related to NICU nursing would be helpful. I suspect that at least some of this information might be located in another thread or a sticky...if so, pls. excuse my ignorance and point me towards the light. :)

Thank you!

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Hi...........in my unit (in NW FLA) we frequently hire new grads....finding they still in "learning mode" and receptive to our training. I would advise moving to a pediatric area...to get used to dealing with parents, and learning what you can about breastfeeding, developmental care, and all things NICU. (for ex...if you have to write a paper or something) Also....any and all psych you learn with be of great importance!

Best wishes!

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Specializes in NICU.

I'd look for a tech position in the OB or postpartum units. That way you can get some well-baby experiences and interact with mom and baby. And those units work somewhat with the NICU, therefore you can meet some of the NICU staff and at least take a tour of the NICU.

Do they hire externs at that hospital? Where I work, you can apply for an extern position after being in nursing school for a year, and that's a great way to get a foot in the door and you get so much valuable experience that helps as a new grad.

Like the previous poster said, we too hire a ton of new grads into the NICU, as do most of the big NICUs in this area. So keep in mind that it can be done and a lot of places actually prefer new grads.

Good luck to you!

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Specializes in Med/Surg <1; Epic Certified <1.

I'd like to ask those of you with experience whether there is a preference for BSNs over ADNs?!?

I am currently in an ADN program and will also graduate in May '08. One of my fellow students noted that our local children's hospital had RN openings galore -- for BSNs. I haven't actually attempted contact with their nurse recruiter yet, but was curious if anyone was aware of this preference?!?!

Thanks!

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Specializes in NICU, Infection Control.

I think there is a preference for BSNs, esp. for Level 3s in teaching hospitals. And, any hospital that's even remotely interested in Magnet status is looking for BSNs.

If you are in a bridge program when you apply, you would probably have a better chance of being hired.

JMHO!!

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