Even the most unique and rewarding roles, like that of a neonatal nurse practitioner, come with potential workplace challenges. From physicians to families, there is always an opportunity for interpersonal conflict. Still, almost no workplace challenge compares to a coworker with destructive habits, and the field of nursing is no [...]
Honesty is always the best policy “Tell us about a time that you disagreed with your manager. And how did you handle it?” Could there ever be a more difficult question during an interview? (Let’s hope not!) But if just the sight of questions like these gives you the heebie-jeebies, [...]
Don’t believe the fairy tale and protect your privacy It seemed like a great idea. Post my resume online and get the offer of my dreams for the perfect neonatal nurse practitioner position. Soon I’d be working in the best Magnet hospital with all the latest equipment. I would [...]
You did it! You finally completed all your studies and papers, and you are ready to take on the world as a neonatal nurse practitioner. The only thing standing in your way to add those beautiful initials after your name is a test. One little exam. The National Certification Corporation [...]
Neonatal nursing is one of the most rewarding and noble professions. Having a baby in the NICU is probably one of the most terrifying experiences a family could go through. During it all, the NICU nurse is there every step of the way. Through all the ups and downs, the [...]
The signs and reminders are everywhere. Wash Your Hands! There are jingles and timers to help you do it long enough. Hand sanitizer dispensers are conveniently placed in convenient areas, and so are little handwashing sinks. You probably could recite the five steps to a perfect handwash, because after all, [...]
No, it’s not a bad dream, and neither have you gone back in time to seventh grade. Workplace cliques are a reality that we all must face... even in the NICU. It can be hard navigating the playing field at times no matter if you're new to the unit or [...]
How to cope with mortality and come back tomorrow without falling apart. I still remember the unusual quiet that fell over the unit that morning as I clocked in for my shift. As I walked past the hallway, my eye caught a little butterfly postcard on the door. To [...]
Anyone who has ever started a new job can appreciate how difficult it is to get “settled in.” So much information to absorb; so many new rules, systems, and workarounds to learn. And so little time to get up to speed. Adjusting to a new work environment is downright stressful. [...]
You’ve been on the job for a while now. You frequently receive recognition for the high quality of your work. Your patients adore you; your colleagues respect you. But when it comes to your paycheck, you’re not feeling the love. Or, maybe you found out that a colleague is earning [...]
