Neonatal Information needed

[stephen_kor]

Hi all,

I am writing my nursing essay as part of the admissions process for nursing school. I am interested in the neonatal area of nursing. But I have a couple of question to ask so that I do not sound completely out of touch when I turn in my essay. First, are all newborns called neonatal babies? Second, are guys a usual part of a neonatal nursery? I'm a guy and for some reason I believe that I would be a really good neonatal nurse. Don't ask me exactly why but I think I just would enjoy the experience.

Thanks, I would appreciate any responses you might have.

Stephen

[aviator411, RN]

If you use the term "neonatal babies" you will be broadcasting your unfamiliarity with the specialty. Newborns are referred to as "neonates" pretty universally. There are large numbers of males working as neonatal nurses, physicians, techs.....

[EricJRN, MSN, RN]

Go for it, Stephen! While we're outnumbered pretty significantly, guys do work in both newborn nurseries and neonatal ICU's.

[Jolie, BSN]

Neonate literally means "new life". It is a term used to refer to an infant in the first 28 days of life.

When we refer to Neonatal ICU's, we tend to confuse the issue. People incorrectly assume that the term "neonate" has something to do with sick infants. It does not. It merely refers to the age of patients admitted to this type of intensive care unit. Not all babies will be discharged from the NICU during the neonatal period, however. Many stay for months until they are ready for discharge.

As for guys working in NICU, welcome!

[SteveNNP, MSN, NP]

All Right!!!! Another guy interested in NICU!!

I'm the only guy in my unit, and love it!

Everyone above has already answered your "neonate" question, but I just wanted to say welcome, and it's great to have another guy on the forum besides Eric and myself!!!

Stephen