5 answers
Abigail
Student
Rhome, Texas
1
Question
Asked
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Advise on becoming a neonatal nurse and how to start that pathway in high school?
Advise on how i can become a NICU Nurse (Neonatal Nurse) and what are some tips and ways to be able to accomplish this Goal? And are there any ways i can achieve this earlier? and any tips for getting my CCNE (accredited bachelor of science nursing degree) in a few years?
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5 answers
Cheri Hall
Physical Therapist
103
Answers
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Updated
Cheri’s Answer
Hi Abigail,
To become a nurse in Texas, you need either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN). The time it takes depends on the degree you choose. An ADN usually takes 2 to 3 years, while a BSN takes about 4 years. After finishing your degree, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become a licensed nurse.
Check if your high school offers a Dual Enrollment program. These programs let you earn college credits while still in high school, saving you time and money. They are often free, and your high school counselor can give you more information. Each program is different, so contact the colleges you're interested in to learn about their specific courses and credit transfer policies.
Good luck!
To become a nurse in Texas, you need either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (BSN). The time it takes depends on the degree you choose. An ADN usually takes 2 to 3 years, while a BSN takes about 4 years. After finishing your degree, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become a licensed nurse.
Check if your high school offers a Dual Enrollment program. These programs let you earn college credits while still in high school, saving you time and money. They are often free, and your high school counselor can give you more information. Each program is different, so contact the colleges you're interested in to learn about their specific courses and credit transfer policies.
Good luck!
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Abigail !
In addition to the information and good advice given here already, I would also like to share some thoughts to consider.
To clarify, there are no "tips" or "advice" on how to become a nurse, just straightforward standard information about the education for it. Also, it is not a career one rushes towards or cuts corners with for the serious training and clinical experiences that are involved. You do not gain the ability to be a nurse in a quick path, there's a lot to learn, lots of responsibility working on people's bodies and sometimes in various stages of life and death situations. I advise that you obtain a full understanding of Nursing before you make your educational plans because it seems as though you want to rush through it. Also, working with newborns demands lots of confidence, knowledge, awareness of liability and the academic path requires great focus and time. More and more, the Bachelors Degree for Nursing is becoming more in demand by employers, especially if you eventually want to work in neonatal. So there are some factors for this career that you may need to come to terms with.
You do not begin the education for Nursing in High School unless your high school has a vocational LPN program. If not, you start in college.
Start out by getting a full understanding about Nursing in general. Learn about all the things nurses do. I left a link for you below for videos about Nursing presented by nurse professionals. I also left a link for videos about neonatal care so you can get an idea of the situations and things you would be expected to learn, know and do. You can learn neonatal specifically through some post-graduate programs, certificate courses or a continuing nursing education course online. In Texas, you will have to do 20 hours of Nurse Continuing Education every two years to keep your Nursing License and these courses could very well be focused on neonatal. Getting a clear picture of the education path and career will help you decide if this is a field of work that you really want to do. It is a big time and financial commitment.
Become well informed before deciding on a career. I hope this is something to think about and I wish you all the best !
VIDEOS ABOUT NURSING https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=what+it%27s+like+to+be+a+Nurse
VIDEOS ABOUT NEONATAL CARE https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Neonatal+care
In addition to the information and good advice given here already, I would also like to share some thoughts to consider.
To clarify, there are no "tips" or "advice" on how to become a nurse, just straightforward standard information about the education for it. Also, it is not a career one rushes towards or cuts corners with for the serious training and clinical experiences that are involved. You do not gain the ability to be a nurse in a quick path, there's a lot to learn, lots of responsibility working on people's bodies and sometimes in various stages of life and death situations. I advise that you obtain a full understanding of Nursing before you make your educational plans because it seems as though you want to rush through it. Also, working with newborns demands lots of confidence, knowledge, awareness of liability and the academic path requires great focus and time. More and more, the Bachelors Degree for Nursing is becoming more in demand by employers, especially if you eventually want to work in neonatal. So there are some factors for this career that you may need to come to terms with.
You do not begin the education for Nursing in High School unless your high school has a vocational LPN program. If not, you start in college.
Start out by getting a full understanding about Nursing in general. Learn about all the things nurses do. I left a link for you below for videos about Nursing presented by nurse professionals. I also left a link for videos about neonatal care so you can get an idea of the situations and things you would be expected to learn, know and do. You can learn neonatal specifically through some post-graduate programs, certificate courses or a continuing nursing education course online. In Texas, you will have to do 20 hours of Nurse Continuing Education every two years to keep your Nursing License and these courses could very well be focused on neonatal. Getting a clear picture of the education path and career will help you decide if this is a field of work that you really want to do. It is a big time and financial commitment.
Become well informed before deciding on a career. I hope this is something to think about and I wish you all the best !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Gina Gill
Nurse
30
Answers
Vacaville
Updated
Gina’s Answer
First, focus on becoming a nurse. Getting a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a great idea because many places now require registered nurses (RNs) to have a BSN or even a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) for leadership roles. However, a BSN is not the only path. You can choose a shorter route like an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a diploma program. These programs are often expensive and mainly focus on preparing you for the state RN exam. It's beneficial to have a broader education, as subjects like psychology, sociology, economics, biology, and chemistry are useful in healthcare.
Once you become an RN, you can apply for positions in your areas of interest. If you want to work in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), you can apply there. However, NICU nurses are highly skilled and care for very sick babies, so getting hired immediately can be challenging. Once you pass the state test you can look for new graduate RN programs. These positions are paid and include benefits, and the first few months involve intensive training alongside experienced nurses. Although these programs are often in general medical/surgical units, they provide a great start. Once you gain experience, you can move into the NICU and become NICU RN certified, which enhances your career growth and stability. The great thing about nursing is the ability to explore different areas within the field.
Once you become an RN, you can apply for positions in your areas of interest. If you want to work in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), you can apply there. However, NICU nurses are highly skilled and care for very sick babies, so getting hired immediately can be challenging. Once you pass the state test you can look for new graduate RN programs. These positions are paid and include benefits, and the first few months involve intensive training alongside experienced nurses. Although these programs are often in general medical/surgical units, they provide a great start. Once you gain experience, you can move into the NICU and become NICU RN certified, which enhances your career growth and stability. The great thing about nursing is the ability to explore different areas within the field.
Susana Appiah
MIDWIFE
98
Answers
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Updated
Susana’s Answer
Hello Abigail, thank you for the question.
To pursue a career as a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) nurse, it’s essential to follow a clear educational and experiential path. Here’s a guide on how to get started:
1. High School Preparation:
Focus on Science and Math: Taking advanced biology, chemistry, and mathematics courses will lay a strong foundation for nursing studies.
Health-Related Volunteering: Gain experience in healthcare by volunteering at hospitals, clinics, or neonatal units. This exposure will help you understand the work environment and build a network.
Consider Becoming a CNA: Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in high school is a great way to gain hands-on experience in healthcare and get familiar with patient care.
Get Involved in Healthcare-Related Extracurriculars: Join a health club, take part in medical internships, or explore shadowing opportunities with healthcare professionals to deepen your interest in neonatal nursing.
2. College and Nursing Program:
Enroll in a CCNE-Accredited Nursing Program: Look for schools with accredited Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs. Many nursing schools offer programs designed for quicker completion if you take on a full-time course load and summer sessions.
Specialize in Neonatal Nursing: During nursing school, take courses or electives related to pediatrics, neonatology, or newborn care. Some programs might offer specialized neonatal nursing courses or rotations.
Consider an Accelerated Program: Some universities offer accelerated BSN programs for individuals who already have a degree or specific experience. If you're on a fast track, this could help you complete your degree sooner.
3. NICU Nurse Certification and Experience:
Obtain a Registered Nurse (RN) License: After earning your BSN, you’ll need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed RN.
Gain Experience in Pediatric or NICU Settings: Start your career by working in a pediatric unit or NICU as an RN. You can also apply for internships or volunteer opportunities within NICUs to gain specific experience in neonatal care.
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) Option: If you're aiming for a specialized role as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP), you will need to pursue a master’s degree or Doctorate in Nursing with a focus on neonatology.
4. Tips for Achieving Your Goal Early:
Be Proactive: Pursue as much hands-on experience as you can, even during high school and early college years.
Find Mentorship: Reach out to NICU nurses or other neonatal specialists who can provide guidance and insight into the career path.
Network in the Healthcare Community: Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars related to neonatal nursing to stay updated and make professional connections.
Stay Focused and Committed: It’s a demanding but rewarding career. Stay committed to your studies and clinical practice to excel in this field.
With careful planning, dedication, and a strong foundation in both education and clinical experience, you can achieve your goal of becoming a neonatal nurse and advance your career as a NICU specialist.
To pursue a career as a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) nurse, it’s essential to follow a clear educational and experiential path. Here’s a guide on how to get started:
1. High School Preparation:
Focus on Science and Math: Taking advanced biology, chemistry, and mathematics courses will lay a strong foundation for nursing studies.
Health-Related Volunteering: Gain experience in healthcare by volunteering at hospitals, clinics, or neonatal units. This exposure will help you understand the work environment and build a network.
Consider Becoming a CNA: Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in high school is a great way to gain hands-on experience in healthcare and get familiar with patient care.
Get Involved in Healthcare-Related Extracurriculars: Join a health club, take part in medical internships, or explore shadowing opportunities with healthcare professionals to deepen your interest in neonatal nursing.
2. College and Nursing Program:
Enroll in a CCNE-Accredited Nursing Program: Look for schools with accredited Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs. Many nursing schools offer programs designed for quicker completion if you take on a full-time course load and summer sessions.
Specialize in Neonatal Nursing: During nursing school, take courses or electives related to pediatrics, neonatology, or newborn care. Some programs might offer specialized neonatal nursing courses or rotations.
Consider an Accelerated Program: Some universities offer accelerated BSN programs for individuals who already have a degree or specific experience. If you're on a fast track, this could help you complete your degree sooner.
3. NICU Nurse Certification and Experience:
Obtain a Registered Nurse (RN) License: After earning your BSN, you’ll need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed RN.
Gain Experience in Pediatric or NICU Settings: Start your career by working in a pediatric unit or NICU as an RN. You can also apply for internships or volunteer opportunities within NICUs to gain specific experience in neonatal care.
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) Option: If you're aiming for a specialized role as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP), you will need to pursue a master’s degree or Doctorate in Nursing with a focus on neonatology.
4. Tips for Achieving Your Goal Early:
Be Proactive: Pursue as much hands-on experience as you can, even during high school and early college years.
Find Mentorship: Reach out to NICU nurses or other neonatal specialists who can provide guidance and insight into the career path.
Network in the Healthcare Community: Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars related to neonatal nursing to stay updated and make professional connections.
Stay Focused and Committed: It’s a demanding but rewarding career. Stay committed to your studies and clinical practice to excel in this field.
With careful planning, dedication, and a strong foundation in both education and clinical experience, you can achieve your goal of becoming a neonatal nurse and advance your career as a NICU specialist.
Dr. J. Andre` Bonneville
Supervisory Prosthetist Orthotist
3
Answers
Gainesville, Florida
Updated
Dr. J. Andre`’s Answer
Becoming a neonatal nurse is a rewarding career path that involves specialized nursing care for newborn infants, especially those who are premature or have health issues. Here is an outline to help you start on this pathway from high school:
1. High School Preparation
Coursework:
• Focus on science and math courses such as biology, chemistry, physics, and algebra.
• Take advanced placement (AP) courses if available in subjects like biology and chemistry.
Extracurricular Activities:
• Join health science clubs or organizations like HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America).
• Volunteer at hospitals, particularly in departments that involve pediatrics or maternity care if possible.
Experience:
• Seek out shadowing opportunities with nurses or doctors to gain exposure to the healthcare environment.
College Degree and Licensing
Obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN):
• Choose a college or university with a strong nursing program.
• Maintain a high GPA to be competitive for nursing school admissions.
Obtain Clinical Experience:
• During your BSN program, gain experience through clinical rotations, especially in neonatal care if possible.
Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam:
• After completing your BSN, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse (RN).
Specialized Experience and Certification
Gain Experience as an RN:
• Work in a hospital setting, preferably in departments such as pediatrics, labor and delivery, or neonatal intensive care units (NICU) to gain
relevant experience.
Consider Certification:
• Obtain certification as a neonatal nurse. Certifications can include:
Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)
Certified Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse (RNC-NIC) through the National Certification Corporation (NCC).
Continuing Education:
• Stay updated with continuing education courses and attend workshops or conferences related to neonatal care.
Advanced Education (Optional but Beneficial)
Pursue Advanced Degrees:
• Consider pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a focus on neonatal care to advance your
expertise and career prospects.
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner:
• If you wish to have advanced practice roles, consider becoming a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) which requires advanced degrees and
additional certification.
By starting early and following this pathway, you'll be well-prepared for a successful and fulfilling career in neonatal nursing.
Respectfully submitted,
Dr. Jeffrey Andre’ Bonneville
Clinical Services Supervisor
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
1. High School Preparation
Coursework:
• Focus on science and math courses such as biology, chemistry, physics, and algebra.
• Take advanced placement (AP) courses if available in subjects like biology and chemistry.
Extracurricular Activities:
• Join health science clubs or organizations like HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America).
• Volunteer at hospitals, particularly in departments that involve pediatrics or maternity care if possible.
Experience:
• Seek out shadowing opportunities with nurses or doctors to gain exposure to the healthcare environment.
College Degree and Licensing
Obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN):
• Choose a college or university with a strong nursing program.
• Maintain a high GPA to be competitive for nursing school admissions.
Obtain Clinical Experience:
• During your BSN program, gain experience through clinical rotations, especially in neonatal care if possible.
Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam:
• After completing your BSN, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse (RN).
Specialized Experience and Certification
Gain Experience as an RN:
• Work in a hospital setting, preferably in departments such as pediatrics, labor and delivery, or neonatal intensive care units (NICU) to gain
relevant experience.
Consider Certification:
• Obtain certification as a neonatal nurse. Certifications can include:
Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)
Certified Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse (RNC-NIC) through the National Certification Corporation (NCC).
Continuing Education:
• Stay updated with continuing education courses and attend workshops or conferences related to neonatal care.
Advanced Education (Optional but Beneficial)
Pursue Advanced Degrees:
• Consider pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a focus on neonatal care to advance your
expertise and career prospects.
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner:
• If you wish to have advanced practice roles, consider becoming a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) which requires advanced degrees and
additional certification.
By starting early and following this pathway, you'll be well-prepared for a successful and fulfilling career in neonatal nursing.
Respectfully submitted,
Dr. Jeffrey Andre’ Bonneville
Clinical Services Supervisor
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Thank you!
Abigail