Jimmy Said:

what is a neonatal nurse practitioner?

We Answered:

A neonatal nurse practitioner is an advanced practice nurse that specializes in caring for premature and/or high risk infants. You first need a 4 year nursing degree than obtain your masters in nursing with a focus in neonatal. It typically takes an additional 2-3 years to obtain your masters

Alma Said:

What is the average pay of a neonatal nurse?

We Answered:

Most nurses make around $40,000-60,000 year...of course, I'm sure all states are different. Plus, there are sign on bonus', insurance plans, 401K's, etc. I don't know what state you are in but Tampa General in Tampa, FL has an awesome NICU. I had a friend that worked there for years. Scheduling is great, 8,10,and 12 hour shifts...3,4,5 days a week, nights or days.
I called on a RN job in the TX area, they are paying between $18-23/hr for a Dr's office position in OB/GYN.

Katie Said:

How much schooling is needed to become a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner?

We Answered:

First you need to get your RN license. You can either get an associates degree (2-year) and then later take a RN - BSN completion program, or you can go directly into a 4-year BSN program. 2 year programs are often easier and less competative to gain admission, and you will be able to start working as an RN sooner. But you will need to earn your BSN, because you will need to go on to graduate school and earn a master's degree through a program that will train you to be licensed as a neonatal nurse practitioner. That is typically another 2 years (full time, or 3+ years part time).

Courses you will need include general college biology, chemistry, anatomy & physiology, etc. It helps to take as many of your general education graduation requirements prior to beginning a nursing program, so you only have to focus on the nursing courses alone - otherwise you may find yourself overloaded with homework.

Salary can vary, but generally speaking, just about any form of nurse practitioner will earn on average approximately $60-70k per year.