Student Nursing Question??

[Sunnie]

I'm currently working on my Associates in Registered Nursing. I have always wanted to work in the NICU but I have heard its hard to get your foot in the door. I was wondering if there is anything I can do now to better my chances of working in the NICU when I graduate. I plan on going back to getting my BSN after I work as a nurse for a year or two.

Thanks in advance!!

[prmenrs, RN]

If you have an elective the last semester, request NICU. That way you can "try it on".

Also, you can volunteer.

Request a job shadow. Try to check out different units.

Denver is a big city and there are probably several units.

Be SURE the one you get hired into has a STRONG orientation/new grad program. If it doesn't, you will flounder. I can't emphasize that enough!!!

Good Luck.

[Sunnie]

Thanks for the info! I will definitely check with my school to see if they do the job shadow program.

[NICUNURSE]

I am a new nurse (just graduated in May) and I am in the NICU. I worked for a year as a CNA/Student Nurse on a L&D/Postpartum/Nursery unit. Although I was working with well babies, I feel that it helped me become a lot more comfortable assessing and handling babies. I don't know what level NICU you are thinking about, but I'm at a Level III and I feel my well baby experience was invaluable. I also agree, if you have the option, spend some time in the NICU during your senior year.