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If you’re a registered nurse with a passion for caring for premature or sick newborns, a career in NICU travel nursing may be right for you. NICU travel nurses are in high demand across the United States, and for good reason: they provide critical care to some of the most vulnerable patients in the healthcare system. In this article, we’ll explore what NICU travel nursing jobs are, what they entail, and how to become a NICU travel nurse.
What is a NICU Travel Nurse?
A NICU travel nurse is a registered nurse who specializes in the care of premature or sick newborns in the neonatal intensive care unit. These nurses travel to hospitals across the country to fill temporary staffing shortages, usually for periods of 13 weeks or more. They work alongside other healthcare professionals to monitor, assess, and treat newborns who require intensive medical attention to survive.
What Does a NICU Travel Nurse Do?
NICU travel nurses perform a variety of tasks related to the care of premature or sick newborns. These tasks may include:
- Administering medications and other treatments
- Monitoring vital signs and medical equipment
- Assessing and documenting the progress of each patient
- Collaborating with other healthcare professionals, including doctors and respiratory therapists
- Providing emotional support to families of newborns in the NICU
How to Become a NICU Travel Nurse
If you’re a registered nurse with experience in the neonatal intensive care unit, becoming a NICU travel nurse is a great way to expand your career and see the country at the same time. Here are the steps you’ll need to follow:
- Obtain a degree in nursing from an accredited school
- Pass the NCLEX-RN examination to become a licensed registered nurse
- Gain at least two years of experience in the neonatal intensive care unit
- Apply for a NICU travel nursing job through a staffing agency or hospital
- Complete any necessary training or orientation before beginning your assignment
FAQs
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What qualifications do I need to become a NICU travel nurse? | You’ll need a degree in nursing, a license to practice as a registered nurse, and at least two years of experience in the neonatal intensive care unit. |
| What are the benefits of becoming a NICU travel nurse? | Benefits include competitive pay, flexible scheduling, opportunities to see new places, and the chance to expand your skill set in a high-demand specialty. |
| What are the challenges of being a NICU travel nurse? | Challenges may include working with unfamiliar medical equipment, adjusting to new hospital protocols, and being away from friends and family for extended periods of time. |
Conclusion
NICU travel nursing jobs offer registered nurses the chance to make a real difference in the lives of some of the most vulnerable patients in the healthcare system. With competitive pay, flexible scheduling, and opportunities to see new places, NICU travel nursing is a great choice for nurses who are passionate about neonatal care and adventure. If you’re interested in becoming a NICU travel nurse, follow the steps outlined above and start exploring the possibilities today.