Starting in NICU...any advice?

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Hello all,

I will be starting out in NICU in about a week and was wondering what advice any of you have for a brand new nurse who passed boards a month ago? This will be my very first job in nursing and I am very excited but at the same time nervous because there is so much to learn. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!!! :bow:

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Specializes in NICU.

Don't be afraid to ask questions, even dumb ones. Sometimes asking a simple question can teach you a lot.

Don't expect to feel expert any time soon. There's a lot to learn and it takes time. I've been here almost a year and I don't think there's a shift where I don't learn something.

Find some unofficial mentors. I have several experienced nurses I ask for help. They don't mind and it really helps me learn.

Get involved with the unit, offer to help with the annual Christmas party, that kind of stuff. You'll meet a lot of friends that way.

Have fun :). The NICU is a great place to work.

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Specializes in NICU, Postpartu,.

I have 2 years of exp and what I can say is do not think that any question is a dumb question.

Don't be afraid to stand up for your babies- go with your gut feeling.

Be agressive!

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Specializes in Level III NICU.

I agree with ask questions! It is so frustrating to hear a new nurse say, "I know" to everything. I have 4 years of experience and I still ask questions almost every shift. Just keep your eyes and ears open and seek out whatever learning opportunities you can. Good luck!

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