[rds007]

Hello. I am a nursing student that just finished my 3rd semester (only 2 to go!) I am absolutely positive that I want to go into the OB field upon graduation. I would love to work as a nurse tech for any experience I could gain (such as assessing moms & babies, taking vitals, learning conditions & meds specific to M/B, pretty much anything the specialty entails) but have had difficulty finding employment. There was an opening for a CNA in M/B at a local hospital, but I did not get the position because the nurse manager was worried about scheduling conflicts with my lectures/clinicals, although the posted shift was 3-11 and would not have caused any conflict. There are RN positions posted at 3 local hospitals, and I just wish that one would give me the opportunity to help the staff nurses a little as a nurse tech, since they are so short staffed.
Maternal-child was by far my favorite nursing class and clinical and I earned the highest grade in the class. I can't imagine working in any other area of nursing (after the obligitory med/surg time as a new grad.)
Can anyone give me any advice to getting my foot in the door? I feel so passionately about this. I would appreciate any guidance.
Thanks!!
Rachel

[tulsaL&D]

I work at a teaching hospital and we have nurse externs all of the time. You get paid around $10/hr and can work 24 hours a week. We occasionally hire new grads in L&D, and it definately helps if you have had the externship experience. I would check around, or even speak with your advisor at school about an externship.