How to become a Labor & Delivery nurse?

[futurecalinurse]

hello all,

i have been working on a med/surg oncology unit and without a doubt i know this is not for me. my passion is really labor & delivery, but i am having a very hard time trying to get into this are.

i see many job openings but they all want some kind of experience in the are.....but do i get it?

does anyone know of any classes for l & d?

any hints?

i'd appreciate any help.

thanks

:typing

[Daytonite, BSN, RN]

The best way is to transfer to a position there in that facility that you already work in. Informally talk with the nurse manager and tell her of your interest and ask what you should do to prepare. Do that. I would look for CEU offerings for OB as well in the community and start learning about OB and educating yourself about OB. Fill out a transfer request. Watch for OB openings. When an opening comes up in your facility you should have first priority because you are an employee and if you have demonstrated that you have been preparing and you have a good employee record, they really have to have good reason for refusing to take you. This is how I got myself on an IV Team although I had to wait over a year.

[bagladyrn, RN]

You may want to apply for positions in Postpartum/Mother-Baby and then after being established there volunteer to crosstrain to L&D. Once you are in the area it should be easier to get first shot at any openings.

[futurecalinurse]

Thank you for your tips, this really helps me.