Question about working in the NICU

Hmm I've had friends who went through this. They had the same fears, but they felt that once they actually started caring for the kids, that was their own way to care for children. They may never be parents themselves, but being a nurse for them helped them out. That was just them though.

My situation is similar. Initially, the opportunity to care for little ones seemed mutually beneficial. I would give them my time, care and nurturing. They would give me greater purpose, knowing that despite being childless, I had made a difference in their lives. Over time, however, each encounter with neglectful and irresponsible parents made my circumstances seem even more unfair. How could those who care so little about being parents be given such an incredible gift (often many times over) and take it so for granted. Caring for the little ones was a great privilege, but it took a significant emotional toll.

Thanks for the responses. I will see how the job shadow goes. I am also keeping my options open. One thing that I am seeking is a challenge. While Med Surg nursing is a specialty and most definetly a challenge, I'm looking for new skills and experiences.

My urge to have babies isn't any greater than it was before I started working NICU. I do love caring for them, and you don't get to cuddle with your patients in many other settings. But at the end of the day, someone else gets to stay up and feed 'em when I go home. I have heard of a nurse fostering one of the babies, but it could be an old wives tale.