Changing from PP to L&D

[LDR-RN]

Hello Everyone and Happy Holidays!

I am a new grad and just landed a job in PP. I am elated, b/c my dream job is in L&D, and I feel very lucky that I landed a job in OB as a new grad. I can't wait to get started and get my feet wet. I feel really lucky to have my dream job right out of school.

One question I wanted to know from experienced nurses that started out in PP, was how long did you work in PP before you transferred to L&D. I know they are two completely different areas, but I just wanted to know how long most people worked in other areas of OB before changing to L&D. I want to get a good knowledge base in PP, so that I will be ready for L&D when a job becomes available.

[jhhrn68]

Our unit is combined L&D, PP and nursery. Everyone is cross-trained and I started in L&D. That is still my favorite place to be but sometimes PP is a nice break from the chaos that L&D can be. Good luck with getting into L&D.

[jenrninmi, MSN, RN]

Congrats on getting your dream job right out of school! I hope you love it!

[SmilingBluEyes]

I think you are doing this exactly right. PP and Mother-baby are great experience for L and D. It's a good progression. Where I work, we do it all being LDRP so you have to learn a everything from antepartum through PP and newborn. Get a good base knowledge in PP and then if you do someday want to move to L\D you should be able to do so with considerably more ease than I did, having to learn it all at once.

I wish you the best. Congratulations on the job and Happy Holidays to you.

[rn/writer, RN]

Congrats on your new job.

I found a job in PP with the thought that it would be a stepping stone to L&D. After almost four years, I haven't left, and don't think I ever will. I really like working with moms and babies. Lots of teaching and time to develop a bond. I won't say that it's easy, but the pace is much different from L&D.

Deb is right that you are wise to learn PP first and then make the transition.

I wish you the best with your career.