Unsure...please help!!!

[ShannonSRN]

I will be graduating from nursing school in May '06...I have recently started in the NICU as a clinical tech at a large teaching hospital. I have extensive experience in Labor and Delivery, and a great interest in NICU nursing...that was until now! Now I am terrified!

My orientation on the unit has been extremely unorganized. I have had to arrange my own site orientation, chase people down for learning experiences that are required before the end of my orientation, and I don't even think anyone really recognizes my presence on the unit.

If you are experienced in a hospital, you will be aware of the checklists, sign-off sheets, POC testing, etc...I didn't receive any of this paperwork until 3 weeks into my orientation. I am just getting very frustrated and discouraged!

Not to mention that I am learning this from the ground up, and I feel that I need some guidance!

I am beginning to think I should go back to my L&D roots, where I am happy and comfortable. Not to mention I love it!

Now I realize that I am a "Type A" personality, and that if I don't think I can do this to near perfect...I won't want to try...abd I plan to perservere as much I possible.

But if the NICU does not fit well for me, how do I approach the situation of asking for a transfer to the L&D in this particular hosital...

Do I just apply for GN position in L&D, and NOT in the NICU? Do I appraoch my manager and express my concerns/fears?

I need some advice...if anyone would be so kind to lend some I would be extremely greatful! (To all of the above)