nicu or newborn nursery first?

[jewls67]

Hello everyone, I really need some advice. I recently passed my RN boards and had an interview with the nicu position here in town. I also will have an interview with another hospital for the newborn nursery level II.

I have never worked in a hospital and have no nursing experience. I don't know if I should take the nicu position, which is more than likely going to be offered to me ( I have a second interview with them), or should I start out small and start in the newborn nursery at another hospital?I really want the nicu job, but when I think about it, I get anxiety. Is this normal? But then when I think about the newborn nursery I am thinking do I really need to start out there before nicu?? Oh decisions, decisions, lol!!

Please any thoughts or comments appreciated :)! Thanks!

[RNnicu42]

If NICU is where you ultimately want to be I would take that offer. There will probably an orientation that should help you feel a little more comfortable. From what I have heard though, no matter what unit you are on, it will take 6months to a year for you to actually feel comfortable and confident when walking on to your shift. The nicu will be a great learning experience and if you are passionate and committed, it will work out.

[babyNP., APRN]

I would take NICU if that's what you truly want. I started out as a new grad in a tertiary center (sickest of the sick) and while it was a looooong road that was hard at many times, it was 1000x worth it for me because this is what I want to do.