Has anyone gone from L&D to NICU or viceversa?

[Shanlee79]

Hello,

Just curious if any current NICU nurses have started off in L&D area and made the move or vice versa...or work both??

I just had a visit at the hospital where I am doing my preceptorship in Jan. and the Mgr of NICU explained that commonly if she has no openings there, they often hire new grads into the Woman/child float pool. I enjoyed my L&D rotation, of course it was only a small glimpse into the role while I was there. Looking for pros & cons, as I am not sure if I would want to go this route.

Thanks in advance!

[NICU_babyRN, BSN, RN]

If this is a nicu you really want to work at, you can't go wrong starting off in a position within the W&C department! It's quite a bit easier to get intra-hospital transfer than to apply from outside. And you'll come in with some great time management! Given this, you should still apply for other positions available at this same hospital (in non W&C) and other facilities. It is a tough market out there. Be sure to have a strong cover letter and n

[NicuGal, MSN, RN]

I would be hesitant as a new grad to enter a float pool. Our new grads get a full 12-16 week orientation in the ICUs and 8-12 weeks on the floors, L/D is 12-16 also.

[Shanlee79]

I would be hesitant as a new grad to enter a float pool. Our new grads get a full 12-16 week orientation in the ICUs and 8-12 weeks on the floors, L/D is 12-16 also.

Ya I thought that too. I know the hospital just cares about filling vacancies but I wouldn't accept a position without sufficient orientation. The NICU that I will be at offers a 6 month critical care course once hired on. I wouldn't even begin to understand how a new grad would begin to orientate to all areas of Woman's. I can see picking one area but never considered that route into now. I guess we'll see what practicum brings but I think I would rather stick to pediatrics if I had to choose.

Thank's for your input!