New Grad Trying for NICU

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Hello everyone! I'm a new grad (May 2013) with my BSN and have been searching for my first RN position for quite some time now. While I know I can't be too picky with the way the economy is right now, my main focus is the NICU. I was a patient in the NICU and heard my parents tell me all kinds of stories about the nurses, and I want to be able to give back the same support to others. The NICU is the reason I went to nursing school. I'm very thankful to have gotten my senior practicum in a NICU. I'm willing to move ANYWHERE to get a job.

I've filled out hundreds of applications (mixture of new grad and experienced positions) from Washington state to Maine, and everywhere in between. I've had one interview in which they ended up going with someone who is experienced. Other than that, I've either heard nothing at all or have gotten rejection emails. I've tried emailing and calling a few managers, etc in an attempt to be proactive, and have gotten the same results.

Is there anything you all can think of that would help increase my chances of standing out? Would things like NRP and becoming a Neonatal Nurses Association member be somewhere to start? Thanks in advance for any advice you can provide!!

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Specializes in NICU, PICU, PACU.

If they want experience maybe apply to newborn nursery or peds. You will get a range of answers about getting NRP etc. When we interview, we do not even look at that as you are a new grad with no experience and having your NRP doesn't mean much as you don't have the background to put it to use. It is also part of our orientation so even if you just got it, you'd have to take it again.

I know NICU is your dream, but the longer you go without a job, well it doesn't look good. You may have to take another position to get your foot in the door! Good luck!

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Specializes in General Surgery, NICU.

I sent you a PM. Hope it helps!

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Thanks for your response NicuGal!! Even if the person had a senior practicum/capstone in NICU, you wouldn't look to see if they had NRP? I know it's not quite normal RN experience, but it is something that gives a little bit of a NICU background.

I definitely don't want to go any longer without a job as I know it looks bad, but I'm finding that it's not just NICU that's hard to get into, it's everything. I hope that hospitals and other employers are understanding of how bad the new grad job market in general is right now.

And thank you to you as well 11RN!! Yes it does help, and I've sent a reply!

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Specializes in NICU, PICU, PACU.

No, even with a capstone they are considered a new grad. I know it is tough :(

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Ah the dreaded, "experience preferred", yet no one is willing to give the experience. It is the same for every area, not just NICU. I'm in the same boat (NICU my first love), but I can't get any call backs for any RN job in this area (PA). Very discouraging.

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It *is* very discouraging, KNB3715!! After applying to almost every single state, I still can't get any call backs. Even having a compact state license doesn't seem to be an advantage as all the states still say they want you to have their license. I'm starting to lose hope that I'll find any nursing job, let alone one in the NICU. But I hope we both find something soon! Good luck with your search!

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Specializes in NICU, Nursery.

New grads beware: It takes awhile. Really. So don't try to kill yourself in the process. Whether NICU or not, those who have the experience of at least a year will be preferred since they don't have to train the person as much, thus, less cost to them. This is reality I guess. But believe it or not, there are more mountains/obstacles you need to overcome as a nurse and it will get to a point in your life when you'll realize, being a nurse is too hard. Rewarding, but it's tough. Be patient and do not focus your search on NICU at this time. Explore your options.

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North Carolina seems to be more new grad friendly than other places if you're seriously considering a move. I moved 1000 miles away, but got into the NICU right out of nursing school. Worth it. And it's awesome here so that's a plus :)

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katierobin23, I'm VERY serious about moving! Sent you a PM!

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Specializes in Med/surg.

Albany Medical Center in NY takes new grads

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Specializes in NICU.

I may have a couple ideas...but it all depends on how much you're willing to settle for location in order to get started in NICU. I relocated for my first job, and I don't have any regrets. PM me if you want some ideas.

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