What is the process to become a nurse in Labor & Delivery or in the Neonatal Intentsive Care Unit?

Most units prefer RN's since they are able to do all skills vs an LVN, who is able to do fewer. To obtain your RN, you can obtain either a bachelor or associate degree in nursing. Once you become an RN, you can apply in either unit (hint-apply early b/c everyone wants to work in these units). Maybe even get a nurse tech job during school to get your foot in the door. Some NICU's do not hire new grads due to it being an ICU, but some do. I was able to go right to NICU. In my opinion, new grads should be allowed to start off in NICU, but you must be a fast learner & have excellent critical thinking skills. After working full time for about 2 years (it goes by hours worked), you can become certified in your specialty, but it's not necessary for most hospitals. More of a personal thing-may or may not equal a pay raise. If unable to get into NICU right away, L&D or newborn nursery would be good places to start. You do not need to work Adult Med/surg as many instructors will tell you-waste of time. Good luck!

You need to be a registered nurse first, and also desirable if you had a speciality qualification in neo natal nursing, or mid wife