[RN2B73]

Just curious if anyone knows if volunteers are allowed to work on a L&D unit or in the nursery? If so, what would they be permitted to do?

[SheaOBRN]

My best guess would be no....security on the units and in the nursery is so tight now with the babies that usually the only people who have access to the floor/nursery/babies are that units employees. Most hospitals I have travelled through only allow that units staff in the unit and access to the babies. I would assume that it would be too much of a risk. but maybe not....any other opinions?

[hopebewild]

probably not. i work as a cna and one time i was floated to the nursery on 3rds to help feed the babies. well i had forgotten my nametag that night so they almost refused to let me be on the floor. they FOR SURE refused to let me transport the babies to their mother's rooms. security is very tight these days like the first poster said.

[FemmeRN2b]

At the hospital where I did my senior clinical, we had volunteers in the admission nursery. They mostly folded linens and did clerical stuff, but sometimes they would feed or rock a cranky baby as well. They have volunteer uniforms and nametags, so the security thing is not any more of an issue than it is with employees.

At the local children's hospital in my town, they also have volunteer "baby buddies" who sit and hold babies who are in DFACS custody, or whose parents can't visit often because of work constraints.

So, if you're interested in doing this, call volunteer services at your local hospital. It can't hurt to ask! Also, if you are currently a nursing student, look into externship programs the hospitals may offer. I know of people who did this on a mother/baby unit while in school, and that might provide you with the baby experience it sounds like you're looking for. Plus, you can get paid for externships!

Good luck to you!
Michelle

[RN2B73]

Thanks to all for the input. I am on the waitlist for my nursing program and am desperatly trying to get hired into a hospital. I have always been drawn to L&D and BABIES. I have two of my own and the whole pregnancy and birthing experience was wonderful for me. I am going to be volunteering at the hosp. near me and just wondered if there would be any chance i'd get in those units. I guess I'll find out more when I go for orientation. If not oh well, my opportunity will come soon enough I'm sure.

[pirap]

You could also look into volunteering with La Leche League or a support group for breastfeeding moms. Sometimes having a a little background like this may help you gain employment after nursing school-especially in hard to get areas like mother/baby or l&d. Well documented time assisting moms with breastfeeding could help you later be a certified lactation consultant(if you have ever thought about that avenue). We have volunteers on our floor that do secretarial things and help with translation if needed. Good luck!