My Sunshine

Hi!! I am at UT Memphis, but in the Master's program. I know my program is different, but the BSN students I've talked with really like the program...well-organized, etc. I wish I could give you more info...but I know if you call the College of Nursing Office of Enrollment, they can put you in touch with some current BSN students...they have had a "big sis lil' sis program" in the past for prospective students...it just matched you with someone you could talk to about the program...kind of see what it is like...the pros and cons, etc. Hope this helped!!

There are alot of online NNP schools out there...you just have to be willing to pay out of state tuition and the majority of schoolwork is online....they would help you set up clinicals in an area close to you with a preceptor. I presently attend the University of TN in Memphis...http://www.utmem.edu. Hope this helps!

WOW!! I graduated nursing school on October 14th and my start date for NICU was also October 31st...1994!!!!! I have been there ever since, and now am in school for my NNP. Best wishes!

Hey thanks for the info! I will definitely check it out.

I've been a NICU nurse for almost 11 years in Memphis...make 26.58 base (includes a critical care differential) plus 3.20 night shift differential (we work 12 hour shifts) plus 4.00 weekend shift differential...so roughly $33-$34 per hour.

I have been looking into Asheville for some time now, and was excited to learn of a NICU there. However, they do not hire new grad NNP's. Does anyone know of other options for a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner in the area? I have over 11 years level III NICU experience, and will graduate from my MSN program in December. I suppose I may have to redirect my search to other cities....but I'm a nature freak and was soooo hoping for a place in the mountains!!!

I haven't posted alot (lack of time due to school!!), but I do read the boards quite a bit...I am 34 with 2 beautiful children, work part-time in a level III NICU (11 years), and a full-time NNP student!! Busy busy!!!

I am currently in an NNP program, and have been a NICU nurse for over 10 years. Even after all that time, I still ask questions of the more experienced nurses. Of course, I also get asked questions by the newer grads as well...it is always a continuous learning cycle. When you know everything, you probably need to find a new job (not in nursing)!!! 2 years is a very minimal experience when it comes to NICU, because of the critical nature as well as the degree of change that occurs with new research. Most importantly though is the intuition aspect that only comes with experience...many times I have seen a neonate that just seems "not right". He may have no signs and symptoms of illness and his labs may all be peachy, but you've had that baby for 2 or 3 days in a row, and something is different today. Maybe just a few hours or a day later, guess what? Your gut was right...he becomes septic or whatever else, but he IS sick!! That only comes from day in and day out in a NICU for years. Take your time in learning, and much luck!!!