Yes, you can become a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) nurse with an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree. The first step is completing an accredited ASN program and passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Once you obtain your RN license, you can apply for NICU nursing positions.
If you’re considering a nursing career and are passionate about working with newborns, becoming a NICU nurse may be the right path for you. Below, we’ll explore what NICU nurses do, how to become one with an ASN, and opportunities for career growth.
Responsibilities of a NICU Nurse
NICU nurses specialize in caring for newborns who need critical medical attention. These babies may be premature, have birth complications, or require surgery. NICUs are divided into four levels, with nurses playing distinct roles at each:
- Level I – Basic newborn care for healthy infants.
- Level II – Special care for premature or sick infants who need monitoring but are not critically ill.
- Level III – Full-service NICU care, including ventilators, surgeries, and around-the-clock intensive support.
- Level IV – The highest level of NICU care, providing advanced surgical treatments and specialized interventions.
Duties of a NICU Nurse
NICU nurses handle a variety of tasks depending on the level of care, including:
- Monitoring vital signs and responding to emergencies.
- Administering medications and intravenous (IV) fluids.
- Assisting with specialized treatments such as respiratory support.
- Educating and supporting parents in caring for their newborns.
- Collaborating with doctors and neonatal specialists.
Skills Required
NICU nurses must have strong attention to detail, patience, and excellent communication skills. The role requires emotional resilience, as nurses often care for critically ill infants while providing comfort to their families.
Steps to Becoming a NICU Nurse With an ASN
1. Earn Your ASN Degree
To qualify as a NICU nurse, you must first complete an ASN program at an accredited nursing school. FVI’s ASN program in Florida typically takes 22 months and prepares you to take NCLEX-RN to become a licensed registered nurse.
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN
After graduating, you must pass the NCLEX-RN to become a licensed registered nurse. This exam tests your nursing knowledge and clinical decision-making skills. While FVI provides the resources needed to help students succeed, passing the exam depends on individual preparation.
3. Gain Experience in Neonatal or Pediatric Nursing
Many NICU positions require prior experience in newborn or pediatric care. Entry-level RNs often start in:
- Postpartum or newborn units
- Pediatric wards
- Well-baby nurseries
After gaining experience, you can apply for NICU positions.
4. Obtain Neonatal Certifications
Certifications improve your job prospects and demonstrate specialized knowledge. Some common certifications for NICU nurses include:
- Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)
- Basic Life Support (BLS)
- Certified Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse (RNC-NIC)
Career Growth and Advancement
Many NICU nurses start with an ASN and later pursue a BSN or MSN to advance their careers. Additional education opens opportunities in:
- Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP) – Requires an MSN and allows nurses to diagnose and treat newborns.
- NICU Nurse Educator – Trains new nurses entering neonatal care.
- NICU Clinical Nurse Specialist – Provides expertise in improving patient care in neonatal units.
Job Outlook and Earning Potential
NICU nurses are in high demand, with job growth expected to increase in the coming years. While neonatal nurses earn an average salary of over $100,00 per year (according to ZipRecruiter), salaries vary based on experience, location, and hospital size, with higher pay rates in specialized NICUs.
How FVI’s ASN Program Can Help You Get Started
FVI’s Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program provides hands-on training, clinical experience, and a strong foundation for passing the NCLEX-RN. While FVI cannot guarantee that students will pass the NCLEX, we offer dedicated support to help students prepare.
FVI also provides job placement assistance, financial aid options, and a student-centered learning environment. Explore FVI’s nursing program in Miami, FL and FVI’s nursing program in Miramar, FL. and apply now to start your nursing education.
