New Grad offers...Level II or III?

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Hi everyone!

I have received an offer for a Level II NICU in Houston, Texas, and I have a really great feeling about a job I interviewed for today for a Level III in Los Angeles, California. I live in San Diego, CA, so no matter which I choose, I will move for my passion.

The Level II NICU is in a Women's Hospital, and has a Level III as well. When I interviewed for this position, I thought I would want Level II more because I like the patient population and the possibility of moving up into Level III after being a nurse for a while (which they said is very do-able at their hospital). The Level III position in LA is at a Children's hospital, and they explained that this hospital sees the sickest babies in Los Angeles.

Both jobs sound extremely desirable, and I am very much torn as to which position to accept (if the one from today becomes an offer, otherwise I will undeniably go for the first offer). I know Level III experience is much desired and would open up more possibility for me later on...but what about Level II?

Honestly, I believe Level II would be better for me to start, but I want some opinions...what do you all suggest? I felt super comfortable with the Level II unit, and the nurses seemed extremely happy. The manager and director were very warm and friendly. I may have just answered my own question, but opinions are much appreciated!

Thanks!

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Specializes in Neonatal ICU (Cardiothoracic).

It does sound like you are answering your own question. :)

Just be aware that there ARE level II babies in level III NICUs! It's not all super-sick babies. Most NICUs have a mix of sick and convalescing, feeding and growing babies. I, personally, at this point in my career would go nuts in a level II nursery. I need my fix of jets, oscillators, cardiacs, and ECMO.

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It does sound like you are answering your own question. :)

Just be aware that there ARE level II babies in level III NICUs! It's not all super-sick babies. Most NICUs have a mix of sick and convalescing, feeding and growing babies. I, personally, at this point in my career would go nuts in a level II nursery. I need my fix of jets, oscillators, cardiacs, and ECMO.

Hello and thank you for your response. I have made my decision to start in Level II and if I feel I am not challenged enough, I will move up to Level III. I just think as an old new grad (graduated in August 2009), that I would feel more comfortable starting there. Thanks! :D

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Specializes in Cardiac.

Good luck, and remember you dont necessarily have to go with the 1st offer. You were lucky to get 2 interviews in this highly competitive field. They must've really liked you, so make sure you are choosing what YOU like best.

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Wannabe07,

Do you mind sharing the names of the hospitals that you applied at? I will be graduating July 31st and am looking for a NICU position wherever I can find one across the nation.

Thanks so much,

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Specializes in NICU, Telephone Triage.

I think it's smart for you to start in a Level 2 NICU. I've been working Level3 for 20 years and it can be very depressing...especially when there's ethical dilemmas. You have the rest of your career to see the sickest of the sick...and after all these years I don't find babies on jets or oscilators to be "energizing" or something. They are very sick and usually the parents need constant attention...so you are caring for the baby and a social worker for the parents. It can be very overwhelming. I'm sure level 2 parents can be overwhelming as well, but they aren't there as long as they would be in a level 3 NICU.

Good luck, I think you made the right choice!

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I think it's smart for you to start in a Level 2 NICU. I've been working Level3 for 20 years and it can be very depressing...especially when there's ethical dilemmas. You have the rest of your career to see the sickest of the sick...and after all these years I don't find babies on jets or oscilators to be "energizing" or something. They are very sick and usually the parents need constant attention...so you are caring for the baby and a social worker for the parents. It can be very overwhelming. I'm sure level 2 parents can be overwhelming as well, but they aren't there as long as they would be in a level 3 NICU.

Good luck, I think you made the right choice!

Thank you so very much! I am very happy with my decision and I am looking forward to orientation on July 19th! I think Level II is the right place for me, for now. :)

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