Experience prior to CNM/WHNP Programs

[MRD_RN20]

Hi everyone!

I am a new RN working in a maternal newborn department (postpartum). I have always wanted to work in Labor and Delivery, but need a year's experience in maternal newborn prior to transferring into that department according to my hospital.

I have a B.S. in Health Sciences from a great school, as well as my BSN from this school. I graduated with honors with both of these degrees.

My short term goals are to begin volunteering at a local clinic for women's health, and preparing for the GRE.

I am not sure what candidate profiles' look like who are accepted to CNM/WHNP programs, and was hoping for feedback!

[LibraSunCNM, BSN, MSN, CNM]

Honestly it varies pretty widely. Some schools require prior nursing experience, some require that experience to be specifically in L&D, but many do not require nursing experience at all, even if they aren't direct-entry programs. Any experience you can get in women's health before applying is helpful, but I wouldn't freak out if you don't get to work in L&D, you'll just have to really research the programs you're interested in and what they specifically look for in a candidate.

[MRD_RN20]

Thank you so much for your feedback! Do CNMs without prior L&D experience have difficulty with their studies or in clinic, in comparison to CNMs with experience?

[LibraSunCNM, BSN, MSN, CNM]

It's really too dependent on the individual student and their level of motivation/enthusiasm to generalize. I did not have L&D experience, but rather med/surg and mother/baby and I was at the top of my class. I had a classmate who worked as an L&D nurse who basically phoned in the whole program, because she knew just enough already to kind of skate by. If you're passionate about midwifery, you will do fine.

[MRD_RN20]

This is very encouraging! I appreciate all of your help!