Low Census in the NICU

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We are a 62 bed unit in TX and our census has been in the low 30's to low 40's since February. This is starting to worry me and my co-workers. Three to four nurses are being cancelled daily with some nurses having to use PTO in order to get paid. How is the census in your NICU and in what city do you reside?......:o

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Specializes in NICU Level III.

We've been super low but suddenly we are bursting at the seams and short staffed again!

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Specializes in L/D 4 yrs & Level 3 NICU 22 yrs.

Southwest VA - 60 bed unit WAAAAY below capacity for almost a year. Census is 35-42. Calling off people every day, sometimes as many as 8-10. Having to use our PTO, too. CRAZY!

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Specializes in Level 3 NICU 17 yrs, Neo transport 13 yr.

Topeka KS. Level 3. We have been low all year. There have been periods of influx, but it doesn't last long. 2-4 sent home every shift.

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Specializes in Neonatal ICU (Cardiothoracic).

Enjoy it while it lasts. August is coming, and with it, the winter storm-conceived preemies!

We never have a low census. NEVER.

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Here in Tallahassee, Florida we are busy. Short staffed, more staff hired. We spent over a year extremely slow, at times 6-8 babies total. We are a 32 bed Level 3. So we are GLAD to be busy. No more mandatory call offs. :yeah:

Kathy

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