L&D nurse looking for career change?

Specialties Ob/Gyn

Published

Hello- My first post so please bear with me. I apologize for my rambling!

I am currently an L&D nurse but I quickly feel myself becoming burnt out. At times, I dread going into work. I'm tired of the 12+ hour shifts, weekends, holidays, and hospital/floor politics. However, once I'm there I am able to bond with my patients and really enjoy the delivery. I just feel lost and ready for something else. I'm looking for advice/words of encouragement from those who have been in my shoes. I really do like my job and my hospital. I just feel like lately my heart hasn't been 100% in it.

I've been toying with the idea of going back and becoming a women's health NP. I still do really love women's health. I think I would really enjoy being back in school and enjoy the challenge. I love the idea of office hours M-F, the autonomy, and calling the shots. My hesitation is a lot of my coworkers my age (mid to late 20s) are going back to school for NP/MSN degrees so I don't want to go back just because I feel that it's the next step/jump on the bandwagon.

Part of me wants to walk away from floor nursing all together. I've always known it wouldn't be my forever career path, I just didn't think I'd feel ready to walk away so soon (I've been a nurse for a little over 5 years). I feel guilty feeling this way/posting this because L&D has always been my dream and I've only done it for a short time (3+ years) compared to some of my coworkers (I work with many who have 20-30+ years under their belts). Plus the majority of these threads are new L&D nurses/looking to get into L&D and they seem so excited. I used to feel that way too, now I just feel tired.

Anyone here left L&D to pursue an advanced degree and/or leave to get a new job? What helped you to make your choice? What are your pros/cons of your new position?

Thanks!

PrinShell

11 Posts

I have felt the same way multiple times during my 10 years as a labor nurse. I'm glad I'm not the only one. I remember the excitement when I started my first job. Over the years I can feel myself become jaded and yes, burnt out.

It has been hard for me to pinpoint where these feelings are coming from. Is it the long hours? The missed breaks? The management? In my case, I think it is the culture of my workplace. I just responded to another post discussing workplace gossip. Uncooperative coworkers and cliques create such a negative environment that it's no wonder I dread another 12-hour shift stuck with them. But every once in awhile I work with just the right mix of hardworking positive girls and the shift is so much different.

Returning to school may help rekindle the excitement and remind you why you chose this in the first place. Even if you find that after spending all the time and money you no longer wish to continue, at least there would be other opportunities open to you with a WHNP or DNP.

Myself, I'm pursuing a DNP in midwifery, pending acceptance into a program. Even on the "bad" days there is usually at least one patient or family member who seems genuinely appreciative and I'm reminded that I have the ability to make a difference in someone else's life. It is an honor and a privilege to care for them during such an important and vulnerable time.

I hope this helps a little. You're not alone.

ColleenS401

5 Posts

Thank you for your response! So glad that I'm not the only one! Your advice was wonderful. You're right, we are so priveledge to share these wonderful, and at times not wonderful, experiences with our patients. And that's what drew me into this field.

It was a little therapeutic to write that yesterday and got me thinking more into my future. The thoughts of going back to school really excites me. I think I'm just ready for the next challenge. Still have to think about it more and research programs, but I'm feeling better! Thank you!

Best of luck with your program! I love the midwives I work with.

jenrninmi, MSN, RN

1,975 Posts

Specializes in L&D.

I left l&d and while earning my MSN in nursing management and leadership, tried PACU - 6 months. Hated it, I prefer my patients awake and not combative when coiming out of anesthesia, 14 months in an infusion clinic, job was fine, pay was way too low and worked with some of the worst, meanest nurses out there, then did a short time in teaching before I went back to my beloved 12-hr-shifts in labor and delivery. I now know what I was missing and I hope I don't ever forget what else is out there. I don't know how people can possibly enjoy working 5 days a week. No thank you! Lol

Shippo

1 Post

Hi ColleenS401, I totally feel your pain. I have been an L&D nurse for nearly 5 years. I was so passionate and loved my job for the first 3 years. I just don't have them anymore. Now, I am thinking getting out of L&D altogether. The stress coming from urgent situations like placenta abruptiion, PPH, STAT section etc. Lately, I have seen way more those complicated cases and they are definitely taking a toll on me. I am not thinking about leaving nursing, but change the specialty, pace and regain confidence I believe I had once.

Hope you found your best solution.

+ Add a Comment