Specialties NICU
Published Jul 31, 2002
BadBird, BSN, RN
1,126 Posts
Hi Friends,
I am considering a career switch to NICU, I have 7 years ICU experience with adults but I realize babies and a whole new world. Since I hurt my back I am hesitant to return to adult bedside nursing. My question is What is a appropriate orientation? I had been thinking about this switch for the past few years and now I feel is a good time as I am planning on returning to work in the fall. Any suggestions are welcome, thanks.
dawngloves, BSN, RN
2,399 Posts
HI! I have several years of big people ICU behind me too. I had a twelve week orientation that worked out well.
It is a whole new ball game, but you have down the basic knowledge. Wait'll you see how small the dosages are! You'll triple check yourself and question the order!
nell
272 Posts
My orientation was 12 weeks also (in 1988) - that used to be pretty standard. I hear that most are considerably shorter now - 6 weeks, 8 if you're lucky.
The fact that you realize that infants are a whole different kind of critter tells me that you'll do well. Like Dawn says: triple check dosages. Always look up safe-dose ranges for your baby's weight/GA.
A lot of nurses transfer to NICU because of back injuries - some can cut it and stay, others go to telephone triage or UR. Neonatal nursing IS real nursing.
Good luck!
Teshiee
712 Posts
My orientation was about 12 weeks with 3 days didactic. It was very nice. I have learned a lot. I am so use to those small dosages that when I see an adult dosage I freak out!!! Many with ICU back ground have a leg up. It is a nice area to work in.