I want to learn... and stay busy!

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Specializes in Maternal / Infant Nursing.

First, I want to tell you how great this forum is. :redbeathe I love it! I have been reading it through my entire ADN program and I will graduate next week! I have learned so many valuable things. Thank you!

I will begin my very first RN job in a level III NICU on January 12th. I am thrilled and terrified. I have finished everything I need to do for school so right now all I am doing is tutoring and practicing NCLEX questions and I am bored!

I've looked into getting my NRP and STABLE certifications before starting, but my new boss told me not to because the hospital will pay for it after I start. I have ordered the "Advances in Neonatal Care" journal and I have asked for tons of Neonatal Nursing books for Christmas.

Other than reading this forum every day, what else can I be doing this month to prepare for my new job? I love learning and I want to look somewhat knowledgeable when I start. (Especially since all the other new hires have been already working as Nurse Techs in that NICU except me - no other openings, I already tried. :()

Please give me some advice. I am a very visual and kinesthetic learner. If there was one book, one tutorial, or one other learning resource that someone could dive into and really work on for one month to prepare for a job in a NICU, what would it be?

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I was in the same situation as you 2 years ago. I decided to enjoy the holidays. I suggest you read for pleasure, take walks in the snow, do whatever hobby makes you happy.

I think the books are great. I have a few neonatal nurse books. I used to read about my patients conditions when I had time while I was taking care of them, I was able to link what I read in the book with what I saw before me and it really helped.

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Specializes in NICU, adult med-tele.

I would get a copy of Core Curriculum for Neonatal Care or...what's that other one...tan with feetprints on it...Drawing a blank right now but I am sure someone will come along soon that remembers. One, not both. Skim, don't study! Enjoy having the holiday season OFF cause chances are as a nurse it will not happen again for a very long time!

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Specializes in Neonatal ICU (Cardiothoracic).

Check out http://www.motherbabyuniversity.com for its NICU peapod learning modules.... I found them very helpful....

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Specializes in Maternal / Infant Nursing.

Thanks Steve.... I reading the website. Very helpful.

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Enjoy your time. You will have time to learn and I know you are excited. But burnout in any job is high and learn now how to find a little peace and balance as you need it after a rough night.

Congrats...now if only they will hire me,,,,a seasoned old RN, who is an Adult NP working with veterans......wish me luck!

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Specializes in Maternal / Infant Nursing.

Good luck and thank you!

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Specializes in NICU, Telephone Triage.

IMO, you learn the most by getting on the job training!

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