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Certification exams

Neonatal Intensive Care Nursing

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Competency Statements

NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE NURSING

Examination Competency Statements

Competency statements identify the special knowledge inherent in the role and function of the registered nurse certified in neonatal intensive care nursing. 

The certified Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse should possess the knowledge competencies to:

  1. Identify antepartal and intrapartal indicators of neonatal risk and their potential significance. 
  2. Systematically assess all body systems utilizing physical examination, gestational age assessment and neurobehavioral assessment. 
  3. Apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology (maternal, fetal, transitional, newborn), pathophysiology, pharmacology, nutrition, and behavioral psychology to assess the neonate and differentiate abnormal from normal. 
  4. Recognize normal values and deviations in clinical laboratory and diagnostic data and identify potential significance. 
  5. Utilize biophysical monitoring techniques to identify body system alterations. 
  6. Assess the neonate's family, community and environment to identify areas of risk. 
  7. Develop an individualized plan of care for the restoration, maintenance and promotion of health for the high risk neonate and family unit during hospitalization and following discharge. 
  8. Implement diagnostic, therapeutic and educational plans in collaboration with other health care providers to provide direct care for the high risk neonate and family. 
  9. Identify life-threatening states and initiate appropriate interventions. 
  10. Evaluate the plan of care in collaboration with other health care providers and the family, and modify the plan of care as indicated. 
  11. Identify professional nursing issues which impact on the role of the neonatal nurse.