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What Does a Neonatal Nurse Do?

Neonatal nurses provide care for neonatals--otherwise known as newborns. Tending to these little patients can include basic healthy newborn care in the Level I nursery to more acute care for sick or still-maturing infants in the Level II nursery. Neonatal nurses in the Level III nursery, also known as the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), specialize in the high-tech treatment needed for preemies and seriously ill infants.

Education & Training Required to Become a Neonatal Nurse

An aspiring neonatal nurse needs to complete one of the more than 1,500 traditional and online degree nursing programs and then pass the nurse licensure examination to become a Registered Nurse (RN). A four-year bachelor's of science in nursing (BSN) program generally offers more opportunity for advancement or leadership roles, but an associate's degree in nursing (ADN) and hospital diploma programs are also options.

While there are no special degree programs in neonatal nursing for undergrads, some general nursing programs have an elective course in neonatal nursing. Neonatal nurses with a BSN can apply for master's programs in neonatal nursing or study to become a neonatal nurse practitioner.

Neonatal nurses are also required to complete a certain number of continuing education credits every year. These specialized courses are often offered online at universities or professional associations like the Academy of Neonatal Nursing.

Typical Characteristics of a Neonatal Nurse

This is a job that demands both tech-savvy and a soft touch. Neonatal nurses are trained to work with tiny, fragile patients who can't say what hurts, some of whom are fighting to make it out of the NICU. Quick thinking and gentle, neonatal nurses also need to be able to communicate and empathize with nervous new parents.

High Demand for Neonatal Nurses

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, neonatal nurses made an average of $62,450 a year in 2008. Neonatal nurses with advanced degrees are in particular demand and those with at least a BSN have better job prospects. More than a half million babies are born too soon in the United States each year--meaning more than a half million infants will need neonatal nursing care.