NBN nurse looking for job in NICU... need advice!

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Specializes in Newborn nursery, Neonatal ICU.

Hi everyone! I'm new to the forum. I have a few questions. I am an RN with 1 year of experience in NBN. Our nursery had a level II SCN, which I oriented in for at least a month while on orientation. I am trying to get a job in the NICU in my area, and I was wondering if any of you had any advice. Are there any books that you recommend, any tough interview questions to look for, etc?

:twocents: I was a 27 weeker myself back in 1983, and I think that my presence would be of benefit. I know that may sound silly, but hope is a powerful thing to families.

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Specializes in women's health, NICU.

I was also a former NBN/mother-baby nurse who transferred into the NICU. One question that i'm almost positive they'll ask you is how you deal with death in the NICU. Example: "how would you handle a situation where the doctors tell the parents that there is nothing more we can do for your baby and that we may have to withdraw support?" I say this because that is one of the questions that they asked me during my interview. They will also more than likely ask the typical "interview" questions such as: what are some of you stregnths and weaknesses? why do you want to work in this NICU/why do you want to be a NICU nurse? you know, stuff like that. Hope this helps some!!

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Specializes in neurotrauma ICU.
Example: "how would you handle a situation where the doctors tell the parents that there is nothing more we can do for your baby and that we may have to withdraw support?"

not to hijack the post...but what would be a good response to that question?

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Specializes in Newborn nursery, Neonatal ICU.
Example: "how would you handle a situation where the doctors tell the parents that there is nothing more we can do for your baby and that we may have to withdraw support?"

I have never been in that situation, and it is a very delicate situation. I would handle the situation with as much compassion and empathy that I have. I would support the parents in whatever decision that they decide to make. I cannot imagine how difficult that would be for a parent.

I know this is a little off topic, but I have another question. Would it be of benefit to me to send a letter of interest to the nurse manager of my local NICU? I have quite a few friends that work there, and some of them worked with me in the newborn nursery as well. I want to make sure that I have the best chance possible to get a job in the NICU. It has always been my dream job. I know it can be difficult, but I believe that it is extremely rewarding as well.

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