just a HS student who wants to work in NICU someday

[NICUhopeful87]

hi guys!

My name's Linda. I'm from GA, 16 years old, going to be a HS senior this coming school yr.

I plan on becoming an RN and getting my BSN, and i would love to work in NICU.

I've already read a lot of posts here, and have learned SO much from them.

I think the main reason i'm attracted to the nicu is b/c i myself was premature.

Born at 25 weeks, 1.10 lbs.

But, i already do have one concern. My math and science grades throughout high school have been about a C avg. My biggest problem is with the math, tho.

Could someone please tell me what the necessary HS and college pre-req courses are for nursing? That way, i sort of have an idea of what i'm getting into, so i can prepare myself...somehow.

Oh, i do have one other question. What exactly is the difference between an RN and a Nurse Practitioner? Even after all the research i've been doing lately, i still haven't figured that one out.

Well, any info or general advice would be great. Thanks!

[suzanne4, RN]

Welcome to our cozy little group. :)

Baisc pre-reqs, as well as required courses for a nursing program are: Basic mathematics, including algebra; anatomy and physiology; microbiology; nutrition; pharmacology; etc.

There are quite a few science classes that are required.

A nurse practitioner is a nurse who is master's prepared and they function as a provider. Example, in the NICU, the nurse practitioners are called NNPs which stands for Neonatal Nurse Practitioner. In order to go into that field it is best if you have at least two years experience in a NICU as a staff nurse.

Training to work in there is quite different form what you will learn in peds. Most nurses need at least one year to feel comfortable in that area with all of the different problems that can come up.

Hope that this helps....let us know if you have any more questions.... :balloons:

[Energizer Bunny]

Welcome! You are most definately on the right track by being here and reading as much as you can. I would suggest applying to start pre-req's ASAP as most schools have a waiting list. Usually, if you get in for pre-req's and get your grades up for those they don't bother much with HS grades (at least that's my experience!). Good luck to you!

[prmenrs, RN]

If you go to a community college, good grades will help, but you will need to get very good grades in your pre-reqs to get into the nursing program. Try to get college catalogues of the schools in your area (public libraries have them, also check your counselors office), look at the nursing program descriptions/pre-reqs, etc. Also, just the requirements to get into college.

If you are doing all the assignments in your math and science, and you're still only getting C's, see if your parents can help you find a tutor. Future courses will be building on what you are taking now, so it's a good idea to understand this material. You will have to take more science and math classes, and it will just get harder.

Good Luck! We have a new forum just for pre-nursing students, be sure to check it out.