Job Summary
The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Registered Nurse is responsible for providing specialized nursing care to critically ill, premature, and high-risk newborns requiring advanced monitoring and intensive medical intervention. The RN collaborates with neonatologists and multidisciplinary healthcare teams to deliver high-quality, family-centered care and promote optimal neonatal outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
- Assess, plan, implement, and evaluate individualized nursing care for NICU patients.
- Monitor and document vital signs, respiratory status, neurological status, and overall patient condition.
- Administer medications, intravenous therapies, and specialized neonatal treatments as prescribed.
- Operate and monitor advanced neonatal equipment, including ventilators, incubators, and cardiac monitors.
- Recognize and respond promptly to changes in patient condition and emergency situations.
- Collaborate with neonatologists, physicians, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate care.
- Provide developmental and supportive care to promote neonatal growth and recovery.
- Educate and support parents and families regarding treatment plans, neonatal conditions, and discharge preparation.
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the electronic medical record (EMR).
- Adhere to patient safety, infection prevention, and regulatory compliance standards.
Required Qualifications
- Active Registered Nurse (RN) license in the applicable state.
- Graduate of an accredited nursing program.
- Minimum of one (1) year of NICU, Pediatric ICU, Labor and Delivery, or Acute Care nursing experience preferred.
- Strong knowledge of neonatal nursing practices and critical care principles.
- Excellent clinical assessment, critical thinking, and communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a high-acuity and fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency with electronic medical records (EMR/EHR) systems.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
- Previous experience in a Level II, III, or IV NICU setting.
- Experience caring for premature infants and neonates requiring advanced respiratory support.
- Knowledge of developmental care and family-centered care practices.
Certifications
- Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification.
- Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) Certification.
- Neonatal Intensive Care Nursing (RNC-NIC) Certification, preferred.
Note - Travel Exp. required