Staff Nurse - NICU Job Description Template
As a Staff Nurse in the NICU, you will be responsible for providing high-quality care to critically ill and premature newborns. You will work in a fast-paced environment alongside a dedicated team of healthcare professionals to offer comprehensive care and support to both patients and their families.
Responsibilities
- Monitor and assess the health of newborns in the NICU
- Administer medications and treatments as prescribed
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to develop and implement care plans
- Maintain accurate and detailed medical records
- Educate and support families regarding their infant's care and condition
- Ensure a clean and safe environment in the NICU
- Stay current with advances in neonatal care and practices
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Nursing (BSN)
- Active Registered Nurse (RN) license
- Certification in Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in a NICU setting
- Strong critical thinking and decision-making skills
- Excellent verbal and written communication abilities
- Compassionate and empathetic nature
Skills
- Neonatal intensive care
- Medication administration
- Patient monitoring
- Medical record keeping
- Family education and support
- Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)
- Team collaboration
Frequently Asked Questions
A Staff Nurse in the NICU, or Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, is responsible for providing specialized care to critically ill or premature newborns. Their duties include monitoring vital signs, administering medication, supporting parents, and collaborating with a team of healthcare professionals to ensure the highest standard of neonatal care. They also perform life-saving interventions and provide education on neonatal health.
To become a Staff Nurse in the NICU, one must first obtain a registered nursing degree such as an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), followed by a state nursing license. Specializing requires additional certification, like the Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP), and gaining experience through clinical placements or work in pediatric or neonatal settings.
The average salary for a Staff Nurse in the NICU varies depending on factors such as location, level of experience, and education. Typically, NICU nurses earn a competitive wage due to their specialized skills and demanding responsibilities. Salaries can also be influenced by certifications held, institution type, and working shifts, which may include night and weekend duties.
Qualifications for a Staff Nurse in the NICU include a valid nursing license and a degree in nursing, such as an ADN or BSN. Additionally, certification in neonatal resuscitation is often required, along with experience in neonatal or pediatric care environments. Advanced life support certifications, such as Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), further enhance a nurse’s qualifications for this role.
Essential skills for a Staff Nurse in the NICU include strong critical thinking, excellent communication, and the ability to work under pressure. Responsibilities encompass monitoring vital statistics, administering medication, performing medical procedures, and supporting family education. Nurses must also display empathy and emotional resilience when working in high-stakes neonatal environments.