Andrea
About Being Neonatal Nurse
I'm a junior in high school and I want to be a neonatal nurse I'm really interested in babies and want to achieve my goals of what I'm trying to be in life. First I thought of being a Ob/Gyn but I decided that I want to be a neonatal nurse. I was wondering how many days do you get off like do you get a few days off since you work long hours ? Do you get paid every week or twice a week ? Will the school work and test's in college be hard and stressful ? What classes do you have to take in college ? If I wanted to moved to Atlanta after I done with college would it take along time for me to get a job at the hospital ? Is it a good paying job where I'll be able to moved into a house ? And the last question Would I be able to take vacation ? #nurse #neonatal
2 answers
Jana Nelson
Jana’s Answer
Hello Andrea: neonatal nursing is an admirable goal. First, you want to obtain your Bachelor Science in Nursing. So, while you are in high school, keep your math and sciences grades up. During the BSN program, you will have a chance to experience maternity and pediatrics. Doing a specialty comes after completing you undergraduate degree. You will want to look into a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Program. There are a few across the country. I know one at Jefferson University in Philadelphia.
It is a wonderful career choice as there will be jobs available.
Best wishes to you.
Laura Boesl
Laura’s Answer
Neonatal nursing is a great career choice. The Neonatal ICU is personally my favorite place to work.
To become a neonatal nurse, you must first become a Registered Nurse by going to college and taking the typical courses. Those courses usually include general education (math and English), biology, chemistry, anatomy & physiology, and then the nursing courses your particular school offers. College is not easy; but it depends upon how you personally handle things as a student. During school, if offered externships or extra rotations, try for NICU if available to get an actual feel if it is for you. After licensed, you may have work on a general medical floor to start and practice your basic skills before getting a job in the NICU.
Benefits and hours will vary depending upon where you work. Salary will increase with time and varies by location, but nursing is a good career choice. You do receive paid time off to take vacation.
Good luck in college.