Published Oct 28, 2004
Princess_WannaBe
939 Posts
I was wondering if there are any positions for a LVN in the NICU? I am taking my prereqs now for my RN but have thought about going becoming a LVN to work sooner. I have a real interest in working in the NICU and wondered would I still be able to do that as a LVN or should I just wait it out and do the RN program.
Fiona59
8,343 Posts
Honestly, I've never seen an LPN in NICU. LPN's worked post partum. Some facilities use us in L&D as well.
Where I relocated to won't allow LPN's in maternity.
avahsmiles
119 Posts
....Where I relocated to won't allow LPN's in maternity.
I remember you saying that you are now in BC right? I know that on vancouver island, in Victoria, LPN's are allowed to work in maternity, both pre & post partum. I had my last child @ vic general in 2003 and one of the nurses caring for me before & during delivery was an LPN. :) I just happened to notice her badge. :chuckle
I guess it depends on the hospital.
akcarmean, LPN
1,554 Posts
As far as I know LPN are not allowed to work in NICU. At least they weren't allowed when my oldest son was there. I live in Illinois.
Angelia
BittyBabyGrower, MSN, RN
1,823 Posts
We don't have any in our unit either. Most work either peds or postpartum.
Jolie, BSN
6,375 Posts
We staffed our step-down area with a mix of RNs and LPNs. The babies were typically grower/feeders without IV's. The LPNs could manage 02 therapy, bili lights, gavage feedings, DC teaching, etc.
Those were part of my duties in the nursery where I worked.
I think alot depends on where you practice as an LPN and what your interests are. I went through school with people who wanted to work in postpartum and the nursery more than anything else. After practicum they never wanted to be there again. I was the opposite, didn't want to that clinical at all. Couple of years later, I got a job there just for a change and loved it.
KRVRN, BSN, RN
1,334 Posts
We have a handful of LVN's. They've been there a long time and have been grandfather in. I'm not sure how long ago the unit stopped hiring LVN's, but they only hire RN's now.