Labor and delivery nurses provide care for pregnant women in a variety of situations in addition to the actual birth process. From complications during pregnancy to postpartum care, labor and delivery nurses provide medical care plus the support and empathy required for what can be the most exciting, yet sometimes frightening and painful time in a woman's life. Read on to learn become a labor and delivery nurse.
Instructions
1. Assess your qualifications. Labor and delivery nurses must communicate effectively not only with patients, but with their families and medical staff. Creating a plan of care for both mother and baby is part of the job, yet nurses must be flexible to account for ever-changing situations. They must have a great deal of empathy, and be prepared for to make critical decisions quickly.
2. Obtain your Bachelor of Science degree in nursing, along with your nursing license. Know that you may have to work as a general care nurse for a period of time to gain some of the required skills before moving into being a labor and delivery nurse. However, due to the need for labor and delivery nurses, some hospitals are hiring graduates and placing them in a program for six months to a year where they work closely with and learn from experienced labor and delivery nurses.
3. Consider specialization. Certification exams can be taken after two years of working in a specialized field of care, and upon successful completion the nurse may use RN,C as part of their title. Two areas to consider are neonatal care, for seriously ill or premature newborns, and becoming a Certified Nurse Midwife. Nurse Midwives have advanced education and training beyond their registered nursing degree. These nurses treat women before, during and after birth, and usually stay with a patient for the length of their labor and delivery to offer support.
4. Keep current by attending conferences, reading association materials, and joining nursing organizations. Prepare to meet the challenges and rewards of a successful career as a labor and delivery nurse.
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