I think im in love!

[jamisaurus]

So I just had my first OB clinical, and I saw L&D and I think I'm in love. I always thought I wanted to be a CRNA after my required year of ICU, but I'm really second guessing that. The nurses clearly loved their jobs. I wasn't expecting to like it this much, and that scares me-I know it's a super hard area to break into. I felt like i was high on endorphins the whole day, and im totally engrossed in my OB class. Do any L&D nurses have any advice?

[llg, PhD, RN]

Congratulations on having an open mind. Really ... I mean that sincerely. I'm not being a smart-alec. Too many nursing students pursue a single vision of their future career without looking left or right during their education. They miss the benefit of the opportunities to "try out" a variety of specialties and end up with careers they don't particularly care for. Keep that open mind and you may find other great opportunities along the way.

As for getting into L&D ... look for any opportunities you can find to get any type of relevant experience at all. If there are any school projects in which you get to choose the topic, chose one relevant to L&D. Try to volunteer there ... or with an organization that works with expectant parents or new parents. Public health clinics, Planned Parenthood, etc. may have some volunteer or paid opportunities that could help you get started if the hospital of your dreams does not.

Also pay special attention to related specialties, such as NICU, peds, pre-natal care, women's health, etc. People who like one of those fields, may like another, too -- and some of the skills overlap. Those fields might offer you some opportunities to "get your foot in the door."

Good luck to you.

[BSNbeauty, BSN, RN]

I felt the same as you during my OB rotation except it was postpartum. After graduating from school I took a job in ICU, and other places and once a door opened up for post partum, I took it. I'm so happy with my new job. Love it! You may even consider being a nurse mid wife.