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Discussion

NICU nursing

I am a May 2013 BSN graduate and have been working in a level III NICU for the past year and absolutely love it. I am interested in exploring military nursing opportunities however I want to stay within NICU. Any NICU nurses have any advice/experiences to share?

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    • Featured Replies

    There is a large and fairly busy NICU in San Antonio mil med center. If that's what you really want to come in as, ensure the recruiter gets that identifier on your contract. NICU nurses deploy as med/surg nurses. I hear there is another base to go for NICU, but I'm nit sure where. I'm an icu nurse and find our options can be very limited. It may be even more so as a NICU nurse. So if you're looking for some exciting world travel, you may be less than satisfied being NICU. :)

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    WR-Bethesda also has a huge NICU. Keep in mind, however, that based on the needs of the service (especially in this day and age!) you may find yourself working anywhere in any department. Needs of the service come before yours.

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    • Experts

    I'd like to second that response. If you absolutely have to be a NICU nurse forever and ever, then military nursing isn't for you. Just because you have the NICU identifier (or any other identifier for that matter: ICU, ED, etc) doesn't mean they won't stick you in med-surg if they need people there. I personally know a career ED nurse who was moved to med-surg due to need. I also know psych nurses who are working med-surg with me right now.

    I'm not saying it happens frequently, but it will probably happen at some point in your career. Just think about what you would choose if faced with a decision: NICU or the military.

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    Hi Nicunurse 13, I second what Midinphx stated. If you are determined to come in as a NICU nurse, make sure you have the specific identifier. It locks you into NICU. Keep in mind, if you desire to branch out into another area it may take years to get "released". I came into the Military as an OB nurse and after about 7 years, I was able to finally branch out into another area. Its all about the needs of the miltary--not necessarily about what you want to do. Assignments for NICU nurses in the USAF are very limited...okinawa, germany, and in San Antonio. I recommend getting your certification when you can. It will strengthen your package (application).

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    • Author

    Thank you! Definately a lot to think about. I appreciate the advice :yes:

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    Are you applying for this board as a NICU nurse?

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