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I've seen a lot about the need for NICU and other nurses will continue to go up. I was wondering if it's hard to get a job as a nurse, specifically a NICU nurse, and if there is a need for them right now and what that all looks like? Because I've also heard/seen that everyone wants to be working in the NICU so it's hard to get into.?

#nursing #nurse #medicine #healthcare #doctor

Junior in high school. Trying to figure out my future job!

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Rachel’s Answer

As long as you complete an accredited nursing program and are willing to undergo on-the-job training in the NICU, you should be able to become a NICU nurse without much difficulty. This is not necessarily a competitive field, but those who make NICU a career are incredibly talented and motivated.
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Tequila’s Answer

Wouldn't say it's hard. I was a nurse educator in hospitals. Involved in many preceptorship programs and large teaching hospitals. Nurse recruiters and managers go to job fairs to recruit for specialty nurses, either new graduates or seasoned nurses looking for a change. Becoming a NICU nurse is all about you committing to a specialty preceptorship program. I truly would recommend those at large teaching hospitals with a NICU of course. They typically have the resources to invest in your comprehensive training and education with a combined didactic, skills laboratory, and preceptorship where by to follow another experienced NICU nurse's schedule. Depending on how intensive the NICU preceptorship program you could be on your own within 3-6 months. Being on your own means that you take you own patient load, usually 1-2 patients per shift, support from a charge nurse without patients, constant support from the neonatologist and neonatal intensivist, and the support of other seasoned NICU nurses. So, it's not hard to be a NICU nurse, it's about what you want to be when you graduate from nursing school. BTW, typically large teaching hospitals are looking for nurses with a BSN, especially is they want certain hospital accreditations. Just something to keep in mind, but don't let that deter you from your goal of becoming a NICU nurse (if you have a ADN).
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Lecia’s Answer

Hi Whitney,
It is not hard to get a job as a NICU nurse as long as you are committed to their intensive training program once hired. When you become a licensed RN, that is just the beginning of your journey if you want to specialize in something such as NICU care. There is usually a 26 week or longer educational program you engage in on the job and are mentored by an experienced NICU nurse. There is a high demand for nurses like these and is a very rewarding and sometimes stressful professional role. However, if you desire this profession, it is worth it.

Hope that helps.
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Estelle’s Answer

I’m so glad that you’re considering a job as a NICU nurse! These nurses are an integral part of the healthcare team. I know several nurses who work in the neonatal intensive care unit, and they are very satisfied with their job, but they also work a lot. I would not be surprised if there were plenty of job openings for NICU nurses.
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