Over the past half century advances in medical technology has made it possible for more premature and sick babies to survive and thrive. These changes have also made it possible to expand the nurses’ responsibilities. Neonatal nurses create, implement and observe care plans for these babies. They also operate high tech medical equipment like ventilators, incubators, and phototherapy lamps. The care a neonatal nurse provides is based on the circumstances in which the child was born into. Nursing care can ranges from babies who are critically ill to babies who are completely healthy and are in no need of medical care. Neonatal nursing is broken down into four levels so that nurses can be better educated in the specific level they wish to work in. Level one neonatal nurses care for healthy full term infants who need to be cared for until the mother is ready and able. Level two neonatal nurses care for premature sick babies who are in dire need of around the clock attention and care. Level three neonatal nurses care for the sickest babies who are born with life threatening diseases and have to be constantly monitored. Lastly, level four nurses provide care for the most complex conditions. They also offer their services to the level two and three nurses, but may include surgical care and transportation of seriously ill …show more content…
You must then graduate from with bachelor’s degree majoring in the science of nursing. Most nursing programs require students to take biology, anatomy, and physiology. You must also be certified in Neonatal Resuscitation and/or Neonatal Intensive Care Nursing. Before you can you can become a specialized nurse you must first become a registered nurse. Aspiring nurses must complete a nursing program and then take the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses before being their work as a registered nurse. The third step in becoming a neonatal nurse practitioner is to gain experience in pediatrics and neonatal care. Some nursing schools offer internship opportunities so that students can build this experience prior to graduation. This next step is optional but many neonatal nurses complete certifications to build on their skills. The National Certification Corporation gives neonatal credentials. To become a neonatal nurse practitioner you will also have to have a Master of Science in Nursing, but many nursing schools offer this degree through a two-year program. After you have completed your State Board of Nursing certification you will officially become a neonatal nurse