NICU nurse to AC Peds NP

[granadina]

Hey all!

I have been a NICU nurse for 8 years. I have spent most of my career in level 4 hospitals and traveling. I have floated to many PICU/PCICU's. After settling down in my hometown, I'm finding my level 3 NICU a little lackluster. I have decided to go back to school for my NP.

I realized that my feelings about my current unit would not change just because I got my NNP, so I decided to go with Pediatrics for the variety it offers/I do love picu when I float. I'm going with acute care, as I like the hospital environment (for now), but also like the option of specialized pediatric clinics (i.e. peds cardiology) down the road.

My question: will my experience in NICU and floating to PICU's be enough to feel confident and to find employment after school?

The school I was accepted to recommends not working in the same place as you do clinicals. My town only has one PICU, so I intend to stay in NICU and just float to PICU.

Another silly consideration: I am at the top of the waiting list for day shift on the NICU. I would drop back lower if I transfer to PICU and oh nights are painful.... Okay, I'm done babbling. Advice from PNP's is much appreciated!

[quittaRN]

I am doing the same although I do have PICU and PCICU in my background the last 4 years I've been straight NICU but I'm also going back to school for my ACPNP. I think your level 4 experience should be enough you will miss out on some aspects in the pediatric population but I'm sure you'll be able to still relate with the NICU experience you have. Many PICU patients are NICU graduates anyway. ?.