How can I get my chances up of getting a job in OB after nursing school?

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Specializes in L&D.

What can I do during nursing school to increase my chances of getting an OB job in my area? I live in a city with lots of hospitals and good opportunities for nurses. I am going to an ADN program, but I plan on getting my Bachelor's degree right after I graduate with my ADN. Thank you for responding. (: I should also add that I start nursing school in the fall of 2011. I'm not in nursing school yet.

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Specializes in Hospital Education Coordinator.

this is hard to do, unless someone knows you. There just is not a lot of turnover in Maternal-Child departments. I recommend you consider a prn job as unit clerk or nurse aid while in school, in ANY dept but especially OB if possible. If that is not feasible, when you get your license apply in OB and elsewhere. Even if you work in another dept you will be learning how to be a nurse and developing a good work reference. Do not blab to your employer how you really want another job, because that is not cool. Time will probably take care of your concern. Good luck.

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Specializes in OB, Occupational Health.

I agree with the pp. The turnover rate in OB is super low, and on my OB unit we have only hired from the outside about 3 times in the last 2 years. If OB is where you want to be, working as a unit secretary or scrub tech(if available) will help you out beyond just getting a job. You'll have working knowledge of the unit and you'll learn so much about OB nursing.

If you can't land a job on an OB unit, definitely try to shadow an OB nurse on a unit you'd like to work on. This could get you some face time with the manager, which will help when you apply after you've gotten your license.

Good luck with school! :)

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Specializes in L&D.

At least your unit hired some, even if it was only 3 times in 2 years! (: That gives me a bit of hope.... Thanks for the replies. I really appreciate it.

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:up:I would know if they require any special certifications, I just interviewed for a ob job and she informed me that I would need a NRP certification to start,I relocated to different state and this was not required in my home state, so definetly knowing what experience and certification they want can give you a better shot,also don't close off other opportunities, she also said well if you would like I could talk to the nurse manager in postpartum to give you more experience for joining us here in the birthing center. So just keep an open mind.:heartbeatGood luck in nursing school, you will need to focus on classes and clinicals before you get to that dream job

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