New Grad In Nicu

nikiw · Mar 2, 2005

Hi everyone, I graduated from an ADN program in December and was hired directly from school into a level III NICU, I'm wondering if anyone has gone directly from school to NICU, and how successful was your transition from new grad to a specialty dept has been?

I went straight from my BSN program to a level III NICU. I think the most important thing is a great orientation. We had 12 weeks orientation with preceptors plus classes we had to take. If, after 12 weeks, you felt you needed a longer orientation, they gladly gave you more time. I absolutely love the unit I am on. I've only been there since July but every day is great. Even though I've been out of orientation for some time, I still ask tons of questions and get in on every learning opportunity I can. Everyone I work with is great and willing to help. My unit hires 6-8 new grads each year and so far everyone hired with me is still there and happy. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask. Best of luck!

Jolie, BSN · Mar 2, 2005

Hi everyone, I graduated from an ADN program in December and was hired directly from school into a level III NICU, I'm wondering if anyone has gone directly from school to NICU, and how successful was your transition from new grad to a specialty dept has been?

It's done all the time! Soak up everything you can in orientation, and never be afraid to ask questions. You'll do fine!

sparkyRN · Mar 2, 2005

Started as new grad 20 years ago and never left. I'm still learning things all the time! Good Luck!

Gompers, BSN, RN · Mar 2, 2005

Probably 2/3 of the NICU nurses I work with started in neonatal as new grads.

Good luck!

IfeRN · Mar 3, 2005

thanks everyone for the encouragement, i had my first vent baby/new admit yesterday, i almost panicked but my preceptor was there with me all the way, it felt great and exhausting by the end of the shift.

MsJessikia · Mar 17, 2005

congrats!!!:yelclap: