How do I go from med/surg ICU to NICU???

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Specializes in ICU.

I am a new nurse who has been working in ICU straight out of school. I have always known I wanted to work with babies and thought getting ICU experience would help me achieve that goal. I have been working on my unit as an RN for approx. 8 months now and would really like to transition into NICU but I am finding all the positions posted want NICU, L&D or postpartum experience. I don't know how to break into that area if no one is willing to give me the experience and I am looking for insight/suggestions PLEASE:)

Thanks so much:)

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Specializes in acute care.

Hello there:

Unfortunately, I don't have any advice to offer you. I'm also hoping to be able to be the same switch. I am currently a med surg nurse, whose first choice was to be a NICU RN. Unfortunately in NYC, there does not seem to be many, if any, jobs advertising for NICU nurses. And of course, they want one year of experience. I'm hoping that after my one year, I can quickly make the change over to NICU. Good Luck!

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Specializes in ICU.

Thanks and same to you....I can't believe nobody has posted any response to this thread:(

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Specializes in PeriOp, ICU, PICU, NICU.

I went from med-surg to NICU after year experience. I applied to an internal position and although I had no related experience was hired.

My advice, just apply and market yourself. I had no problems transitioning over. NICU is a total different monster and nothing in nursing school prepares you for it so just be eager and willing to learn, listen and read lots.

I wouldn't trade it for any other kind of nursing.

Good luck to you both!

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Specializes in ICU.

Thanks Jessy...I will be diligent:)

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Specializes in Ortho-Neuro,labor and delivery, nursery.

I too want to transition from med/surg to NICU. Would you recommend taking an NRP class to look a little more appealing?

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Specializes in NICU, PICU, educator.

Just keep looking, internal transfers are sometimes your best bet. As for the NRP, I wouldn't, most places incorporate it into their orientation. We don't look at that if the person doesn't have any need for it, unless they are coming from a PICU or ED.

Fortunately, or unfortunately however you want to look at it, most NICU's don't have a high turnover unless they are bad to work in.

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