NICU Nurse?

[Tricia76]

Where do I need to start in the nursing field to become a NICU Nurse?

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

Everyone starts the same way - Basic nursing programs (diploma, Associate degree or Baccalaureate degree) produce a "generalist" nurse. After you obtain your nursing degree/diploma from an accredited nursing program, you are eligible to take your NCLEX examination. When you pass this, you will be licensed in your home state - where you take the exam.

After you obtain your RN, you can move toward specialization in NICU. It is rare for a new graduate to be accepted into training for this area, so you would need to gain some experience prior to attempting to cross train. Experienced NICU nurses can obtain 'board certification' by passing the certification examination. You could become an 'advanced practice' NICU nurse by obtaining graduate education (MSN or DNP) with an NICU clinical specialty.

Obviously, it is a long process. There are no short-cuts to clinical specialization... and there should not be, particularly in this case. It takes both formal education and practical experience to become a competent NICU nurse.

[Tricia76]

Thanks for the info!

[guiltysins]

Actually some nurses do get accepted into NICU as a new graduate (at least in my area) without any training. After you graduate apply for the NICU jobs, one thing you'll definetely need is your NRP certificiation. If you don't have any luck then you might want to apply for Labor and Delivery jobs or Pediatrics since these departments usually will allow cross training or floating down to the NICU. This is the direct way to do it. Also if your school has any kind of preceptorship or final year internship and you get to choose a specialty pick the NICU so you can get a feel for it and possibly make some connections.