Code Of Ethics Of Becoming A NICU Nurse

Nurses hold a unique position in the heath care industry that allows them to create special relationships with their patients. NICU nurses not only create relationships with their patients, but also their patients' families by nurturing our future generations. NICU nurses provide life saving care to infants that are at high risk after birth. They serve under the supervision of doctors and are required to uphold an oath to do what is reasonable and necessary to maintain life and reduce suffering. The Code of Ethics for Nurses includes eight previsions that describe what is expected of nurses on various matters, including but not limited to compassion for every patient, protection of the safety of patients, and supporting an overall ethical work
There are three educational paths that one may take to obtain a job as a nurse. Nurses can be Licensed Practical Nurses, also known as an LPN; or a Registered Nurse, holding either an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in nursing. One-year LPN programs are offered at local vocational schools that provide hands-on learning that allow students to begin their nursing careers. Graduates must then pass the NCLEX-PN licensing exam. Although one can’t become a NICU nurse with only an LPN license, it is a viable option for a student with limited financial resources to begin their path towards their goal. LPN graduates can continue their education to achieve their RN if they wish. A common option is to obtain a job after become an LPN that will provide continuing education opportunities that will allow their nurses to advance their careers. The average cost of LPN programs ranges from $10,000 to $15,000 not including books and clinical fees, but some programs cost as little as $3,000 (Cost of LPN Programs & Schools, n.d.). Associate of Science in Nursing degrees are available at state colleges. These programs take approximately two years to complete and graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN licensing exam that provides additional employment opportunities due to being classified as an RN. The cost of Associate degree programs ranges significantly depending on the college attended.
According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, the career projection for nurses in general is expected to increase by 16% by 2024 (Neonatal Nurse: Career Summary, Job Outlook, and Education Requirements, n.d.). The Miami Herald, in partner with careerbuilder.com, currently lists four available job offers for NICU nurses in South Florida (NICU Nurse jobs in Miami, FL, n.d.). After obtaining a Bachelor’s degree and an RN license, one should begin their search for a position in the neonatal unit at a hospital where they can gain experience caring for healthy newborn infants, as it is required to act as a qualified neonatal intensive care unit nurse. According to Payscale.com, the average entry-level salary for a NICU nurse is roughly $56,000; however, that can increase substantially with additional experience. The national average salary is approximately $64,000 (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Registered Nurse Salary, n.d.). Advancement in the field can be as simple as gaining experience in less intensive units and working up to caring for the most high-risk patients. After initially obtaining employment in the NICU caring for premature infants as a level II nurse, one could gain additional experience and training to become a level III nurse that cares for the critically ill patients. NICU nurses