very first day in L&D...

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Specializes in Obstetrics, pediatrics, psychiatry.

so today was my very first day in delivery room after 3 years of PP...

Coudn't find cervix (probably not even close) on my firsts lady partsl exams..

My patient with 4 previous easy births had a very large baby (10 lbs 2oz) with major shoulder dystocia and he wasn't breathing at birth. I had to bag him for a minute. ( something i'd never done before)

I was in training today so i was following a more experienced nurse but even though i love l&d , i'm not so sure about it now. I feel there is so much to know...

I know i have to be prepared for everything in L&D but is this going to be any easier for me?? anyone with similar experiences?

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Specializes in LDRP.

I dont think anyone can find a cervix on their very first day-don't worry about it!!

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Specializes in NICU, High-Risk L&D, IBCLC.

Oh, I remember my very first days in L&D orientation....felt the exact same way. It takes a LONG time to feel like you "get it." My preceptor stressed this to me over and over as I struggled through vag exams, sections, normal deliveries, everything. And believe me, I still struggle at times and feel like I know nothing after six months.

Give yourself time. Lots of time.

Congrats on your new job in L&D! :balloons:

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One of my friends.....

1st day on the floor with a preceptor....pt called out stating she felt some pressure....when they went in the room...baby out to its abd....

preceptor said: Rule #1....babies will be delivered weather you are present or not!!

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Specializes in L&D/Mother-Baby.

Wow, my first day in L&D was two months ago and it was in the triage department. Boy it was chaos all day. I took care of 12 patients that days and was nervous as heck, but made it. The big day came three weeks later when I shifted to the labor side. I felt like I had two left feet and was all thumbs. I flew around the unit at the speed of light more on adrenaline than knowing whether it was purposeful movement, but I slowly am getting the hang of what needs to be done.

Two months later, I still fumble a little, especially with C/S since those encompass lots of responsibility and tasks, but the more you do it the better you start feeling. It does take a lot of time and patience since you are scrambling around doing what other nurses are doing, their way. Once you are comfortable and know what you have to do, you tend to start developing your way of doing things in a quick and efficient manner. I am praying that time comes soon for me. I hate feeling like dead weight and a clutz. I wanna flow and move like I know what I am doing. It will take time, you are not alone. Keep your love for L&D, it will get you far. It keeps me going back everyday. :welcome:

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