How should we respond to the crisis in neonatal nursing?
The RCN’s career guidance on neonatal nursing must address changes in the profession
Neonatal nursing is in crisis. It’s a long story and the result of a number of factors.
There has been difficulty in recruiting into the specialty, poor staff retention and high turnover. Work in a neonatal unit is highly pressurised and emotionally draining, and so does not suit everyone.
Other issues that do not help the situation include: a lack of educational funds, which has resulted in restricted in-service education; service cuts, which have meant a lack of promotion and career development; and a level of pay that does not reflect nurses’ level of responsibility. The retirement of a core of experienced and committed nurses has also played a part.
- RELATED : Neonatal services under strain
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