why did you choose L&D.....

Specialties Ob/Gyn

Published

Specializes in GICU-WE GET IT ALL.

Hi everyone! Just interested in everyones 2 cents as to why they chose L&D? What drew you to this field of nursing and or what do you enjoy about being in it? Or what is difficult about it, what are things you don't like about it? Ect

Thanks for your thoughts!!!!

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Specializes in Perinatal, Education.

I really didn't want to care for 6-7 patients each going through something different. I liked L&D because it was 1-2 patients going through roughly the same thing. I had enough chaos at home with three kids. Little did I know how chaotic and overwhelming it can be with 2 patients! I enjoy being with families as they start their adventure together. I love giving them information to help them get a good start. It is magical to watch births.

It is difficult for many reasons. Patients are in a very vulnerable state and things can change rapidly. Probably the most difficult thing is dealing with the docs. It is sad that a respectful doctor who has the patient's best interests at heart is a pleasant surprise.

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I am a prenursing student who will start volunteering in L&D at my local hospital in the nursing stations in the first week of Jan. Any advice for someone like me who is starting out and trying to get alot of exposure and info?

Thanks!

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I am a prenursing student who will start volunteering in L&D at my local hospital in the nursing stations in the first week of Jan. Any advice for someone like me who is starting out and trying to get alot of exposure and info?

Thanks!

you would probably get more advice if you started your own post

that way, you still respect the original poster by not moving people off her topic but still get the information you want

enjoy your volunteering

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My apologies, I didnt mean to distract from her question, I was asking the person who responded to her (JaneyW)

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Specializes in L&D; Case Management; Nursing Education.

I think it's a calling. I was a candystriper in high school on postpartum and knew from then on that I wanted to work in OB. After the birth of my first child, I became a Lamaze instructor and a La Leche League leader. Eventually I went to nursing school with the total focus of working in L&D. I was blessed to get a job in L&D as a new grad and have worked there for 20 years. I've never lost my love for this field and enjoy it as much now as when I began.

The down-side is the high liability (some of us have had some experience with lawsuits) and occasionally getting patients who treat us very badly (physically and verbally). Lots of stress, physical work, and being treated poorly by some of the OB/GYN's.

Up-side is the satisfaction and joy of helping a couple/family give birth - a highlight of their lives. Lots of autonomy too - once the docs learn to trust you and your judgement, you basically orchestrate the labor and call the doc in to deliver at the last minute. You also become very good at many nursing skills and procedures. Many of the OB/GYN's treat us very good, we get to know them well, and have alot of respect for each other.

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Specializes in ICU, Home Health, Camp, Travel, L&D.

Love being there the day a family is born, or stretches to 'one more'. Love seeing women at their strongest, love the clinical challenge of caring for the patient I can pamper and the one I can't "see". Love low ratio, high intensity nursing, love (mostly) happy beginnings. Love the education and empowerment of women and families!

Like ICU, I have a collegial relationship with the docs-lots of autonomous practice. I wouldn't change specialties for anything, and am looking forward to expanding practice as a CNM.

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