What can someone guess this position would entail?

[justme1972]

I know it's hard to say what one hospital does vs another, but any opinion is welcome.

A hospital about an hour away from here is interested in hiring student nurses for only 1 1/2 days per week (which is perfect for my school schedule) in the NICU...these are not CNA positions b/c I don't have a certfication.

Does anyone work in a NICU that has these types of positions, and if so, what do they do?

I don't really care about the pay, I just need to be in a NICU environment so hopefully that will help me down the road in getting a job.

[iHeartNICU]

It kinda sounds like what you're describing is what we call an externship. It's not a CNA/PCA position. I work 8 hours/week and basically I observe a lot. As I am there more, I can do more things. It's kind of to learn skills, learn how the unit works, learn the RN role, and get your foot in the door. I work with an RN each shift and basically I do everything they do (other than meds and documenting assessments). I do assessments w/ them so I can learn what to look for, etc. If this is what you are talking about it is a very good opportunity. I have a job in the NICU as an RN when I graduate and pass boards. I love it and can't imagine doing anything else. Best of luck!

[justme1972]

Thanks, that is what I thought it might be. I'm not afraid of doing some clean up as well..little babies, little messes :)

This hospital has both externships and internships, but you have to be in your 2nd year to apply. However, I am hoping that this will help me learn the staff, the NM, and just get a feel for it...if I saw a preemie now (I am the mother of two), I would probaly pass-out at how small they would be.

The formal internships and externships both require a minimum of 24 hours per week, and that isn't a commitment I want to make, along with school.