MSN in NICU

UTVOL3 · Jul 30, 2008

I would have to say NNP.

In our unit their responsibilities are primarily patient care. They go on deliveries, do proceedures and see their own patient load as well.

We had a CNS but it was kind of a joke. She mostly did chart reviews, attended meetings in the place of our nurse manager, stuff like that although I am sure it is not like that everywhere.

By CNL are you meaning Clinical Nurse Leader? I am not sure. But if you are talking about a unit manager, again, as far as patient interaction, kind of a joke.

NICUplease · Jul 30, 2008

Thanks AjaRN!

I was looking more into the NNP role anyway. I was just afraid it would be just more diagnosing, then move on to the next pt kinda thing. But if NNPs actually spend time with pts, that is something I definately will look into.

UTVOL3 · Jul 30, 2008

Oh HECK no. They are the real workhorses of our unit, for lack of a better term. Even if we have trouble starting an IV or whatever, we'll be hollering for them.

Also, I always thought this was cool, one of our NNPs interveiwed at another, larger hospital, not sure where, maybe NC? Anyoldhoo, at this place they were really busy unit and had like 15 or so practicioners and they put them on a rotating schedule so that like one month out of three, they were on proceedures. Again, not sure where it was but I am sure it would help prevent burnout!