jlb_rn16

So I'm starting to become interested in travel nursing. I'm young, single, don't have any kids, would love to see the world and am looking to pay off some things in a short amount of time. I've been a NICU RN for two years, but I've worked in a very small unit where we don't really see Level 3 kids that often. We mostly do Level 2. I've heard that you mostly get feeders/growers anyway as a traveler because they don't trust you... but will I even be given a chance when people look at my resume? Wanting to know before I quit my job trying to pursue this. To give a little background, I'm used to doing: feeders/growers, RDS from LFNC to BCPAP, Hypoglycemia on PIV fluids, Bili kids, Septic workups (antibiotic babies), NAS, going to high-risk deliveries... Things I can count on one hand the times I've had the opportunity to do and I would NOT feel comfortable with in a travel assignment (with people and a unit I don't know): Vent/Oscillator, UAC/UVC/PICC sterile line changes, Micropreemes... So does anyone with NICU travelling experience think I have a chance at getting assignments? P.S. I would've loved to learn the things I'm not very comfortable with, but unfortunately our unit doesn't get the opportunity to see these things very often and when we do, the most experienced or new grads with a preceptor get them. So, that leaves those of us in the middle out of the loop. If you do think I would have a chance. Maybe you can share some tips such as who is a good NICU recruiter? Thanks in advance!

So here's my situation. I started out as a new grad last year in a different department and hated it, so I was able to switch to my dream unit: the NICU. I've been working as a NICU RN for a few months and absolutely love it!... mostly. The only thing I don't like is not getting a lunch break when we're busy (which is half the time), but that seems like a norm for most nurses. I enrolled in an FNP program on one of those really frustrating days when I was HANGRY just to see if I'd be accepted... and I was. At first I was excited for the change, and anticipating the future. The major pull to be an FNP was to get to eat lunch more days than not, hopefully not work as many weekends, normal business hours (depending on where you work) and no night shift! Also, the bump and pay with less physical work was attractive. However, now that I've started classes I'm not feeling as certain about my choice... Am I making the right decision? I really like the NICU, but I feel like taking these few years to get my FNP would be setting me up nicely for my future... allowing me to have more regular hours with my family/friends. Has anyone been in this situation? What did you do? What decision would you make in this example when a way of life is driving you to a decision rather than a genuine love? Ugh... not sure if this is more of a rant or question post...