Specialty areas of practice

Neonatal intensive care nursing

What is neonatal intensive care nursing?

Neonatal Nurses care for newborn babies who are pre-term, or term babies who are sick or have complications from birth. This is an exciting, highly technical and challenging area of nursing, which requires not only consideration for the care of the baby but also an ability to provide care and support to the whole family. The role of the Neonatal Nurse can also include follow up care required for both the baby and family when they leave the hospital.

Where do neonatal intensive care nurses work?

Neonatal Nurses work mainly in hospitals in neonatal intensive care units. They have specialised skills in the assessment and care of the sick baby who may require a range of technological surgical interventions.

How do I become a neonatal intensive care nurse?

There are a variety of possible pathways, which lead to neonatal nursing. After completing a Bachelor of Nursing degree, Registered Nurse (Division 1) graduates can apply to enrol in specialized introductory programs conducted by Neonatal Intensive Care Units which assist nurses in the transition to neonatal intensive care. Student Midwives usually have clinical experience in special care or neonatal care during their studies. Some students, as a result of this experience, then choose to work in neonatal nursing. Registered Nurses with experience in paediatric intensive care may also choose a career in neonatal nursing.

A Postgraduate Diploma of Nursing Science in Neonatal Intensive Care is available from La Trobe University. For more information please see their website.

Why should I complete postgraduate education?

There are a number of postgraduate qualifications in neonatal nursing available from a number of universities across Australia. These courses are designed to further extend the knowledge, skills and confidence of nurses working in Neonatal Intensive Care Units.

Postgraduate qualifications in neonatal nursing are also highly regarded by employers and by other colleagues working in this highly specialized area of nursing practice.

What will my employment opportunities be?

Employment opportunities exist within hospitals in rural, regional and metropolitan areas particularly health service providers which have specialized midwifery, neonatal and paediatric services. Career opportunities exist in the areas of advanced clinical practice, education and clinical management.