Shadowed in NICU and LOVED IT!!!

[whoaitschrista]

I had the opportunity to shadow in nicu today. I am a RN and I have been trying to find my "special area." I really enjoyed being in the unit and seeing the different acuity levels of the babies. There is SO much to learn. I have no experience at all with babies, labor and delivery, or critical care. I didn't know if I would be scared of the ventilators and machines and dealing with babies, but it did not bother me at all. I just wanted to jump right in and help. Is this how you know if it is meant for you? I'm not sure if maybe I should look into adult icu also to compare? I kinda already know what to expect with adults because of my experience. I have applied for a position in nicu, but i haven't heard anything in 2 weeks. I'm afraid that maybe I won't be interviewed.

[RN4BABES]

In Canada, there are courses you can take to learn about the NICU....called Perinatal Intensive Care....post RN certificate program. In the unit I work in, we actually hire new grads with a fairly extensive orientation process (certificate is a plus but not necessary) The orientation program is 3 months for a new grad (fast tracked for those RN's with experience) I have worked in the NICU for 21 years and love it totally. It's my "calling". I'm glad to hear it fascination/interested you and I hope you get a chance to work there! Having only experience with adults, taking a course in NICU -related stuff might help your application!

Best wishes,

Cheryl