Best way for a new grad to get into L&D?

[birdgardner]

I'm starting an accelerated BSN program sometime in the next few months (accepted at Drexel and Seton Hall, applied to UMDNJ), with the idea of working for a year and then starting on my CNM. I'd like to work in central Jersey, say bounded by Trenton, New Brunswick, Flemington. Moving is not an option at this time.

How likely is it that a new grad can go right into L&D? Would it be a big help in getting hired at a particular hospital to have done clinicals there? And does that mean I should choose the program that has clinicals in the hospitals I'd like to work for?

[Makadaja]

Whenever you do your OB rotation, focus on good care plans, care, etc and have a great rapport with your clinical instructor. Inform your clinical instructor of your career goals, etc. That clinical instructor will be an important academic and professional reference for a job in L&D. Alternative:

Sometimes you get lucky and come across a nurse who is willing to be a mentor...Keep in touch...tech positions open up all the time and are filled by direct referral from current employees. Tech positions are an excellent way to get a foot in the door. Caution re- transitions from tech to nurse within same dept...Can be rocky.

If you have clinicals at a hospital where you would to work, that is a positive as far as being somewhat familiar with the organization. Find out about their mission and goals, research projects etc in relation to the position to which you will be applying.

[NJNursing, ASN, RN]

I recommend doing an internship after graduation. Apply early as Maternity often gets filled first along with ICU and the ER. They generally start taking applications in Feb/March for August internships. I don't know many hospitals that will start new grads in such high risk specialities, though, without at least a year or two of experience.