Is it difficult to get into PICU or NICU?

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Hello all!

I am very new to the site (first post) and I am so happy that I have found it. I am 20 years old and trying to decide what I should do with my life. My first choice was to work with animals as a Veterinarian as my whole family work's with animals and it is a passion of mine. Lately I have been strongly considering nursing, pediatric nursing in particular. I REALLY want to work with children. My question (first on many!) to all of you...Is it difficult to work in PICU or NICU? Do I need special certification after I graduate from NS and take the boards? Thanks for reading!

P

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Specializes in Neonatal nursing (paediatric trained).

Many take newly qualifieds. Try reading the PICU and NICU boards on here.

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Specializes in M/S, Infectious Dieases, Pediatrics/NICU.

I work on the peds med-surg , Er and get pulled to the nicu from time to time. The only thing you will need for a PICU is your PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) and the hospital will help you get that. I DO NOT reccomend doing it on your own, get some experience first. And the NICU (at least in the area I live) you have to have your NBR (New Born Resusitaiotn) cert. Which again work for them first to get the experience. The only bad side is, IF you have thoughts of going to adult care, it is a BIG shock. I came form adult med-surg and tried to go back for overtime (after a year of working peds) and got lost in the shuffle. Good luck and remember in peds you are treating the child, but taking care of the parents.

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Specializes in PICU.

One suggestion, try working as a nurse's aide in a PICU or NICU. Not only will this help you get valuable experience and help you figure out if this is an area you enjoy, but it will also help you make contacts that may lead to that job after graduation. Good luck!

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