Nurses can specialize in many areas, but one of the most important and rewarding specialties is working in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). “Neonatal nurses work with infants born with a variety of problems such as premature birth, surgical complications, heart malformations, birth defects, and infection.  Although the neonatal period is the first month after birth, these nurses often care for children up to age 2 who have long-term medical issues,” according to Nurse.org. Statistically, about 40,000 babies are served by these nurses every year, working in the NICU of hospitals around the world.

To respect these special nurses, Neonatal Nurse Week was established to recognize those who care for patients as they take their first breath. This year, Neonatal Nurse Week is celebrated September 14 – 20, with Neonatal Nurse Day on September 15.

In order to become a Neonatal Nurse, students need to earn a Bachelor of Science in nursing.

US News and World Report stated that the University of Pennsylvania is the top school for students interested in finding a career in Neonatal nursing. (Education Option) Neonatal Nurses working in California make approximately $100k per year, according to ZipRecruiter.com so, while there can be intensive training, the benefits are rewarding.

Students at Armijo who are considering a career in nursing might want to look into becoming a NICU nurse. Then, they can be honored during National Neonatal Nurse Week in the future as they change the world every day.