How do I get into Labor delivery?

[cwtheRN]

Hello! I have been a nurse for two years, working on a medical surgical unit as a RN and charge nurse. I have always had an interest in maternity birth and care. In school I was never chosen to precept on these units and I've applied with no luck yet. What's the secret into getting hired or yet alone an interview. I'm staying positive but it's very hard. I am willing to do things outside of work to prepare and get me a job working with this populating. Please help

[shycat]

Have you joined the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses? Have you gotten any relevant certifications (like electronic fetal monitoring)? If not, I would start there.

[NurseLatteDNP, MSN, DNP, RN]

In the last 2 hospitals I have worked as a nurse manager (one was small rural and current is trauma 1 urban), it has always been about establishing relationships with the nurses on the unit and the manager. It is a little harder as an experienced nurse because as a GN you can get into an internship in L&D. What you can do is to approach the L&D manager about cross-training there, so you can develop professionally. Tell her you are available to learn so you can help cover their shifts when they need you. If they accept, that's great. Work your med surg job and cross train in L&D on one of your days off. If you impress the staff with team work and ability to learn, it is all you need. Eventually a position will open and you could transfer in.

The beginning is the hardest but you have to be willing to do what it takes. And don't forget to work hard and stay positive for your current manager. She/he will be the first person that the L&D manager will talk to when considering you for a permanent position. Good luck!

[klone, MSN, RN]

The last two nurses I hired into our L&D unit actually took the time to seek me out in my office, introduce themselves, and tell me that they were interested in working in my unit. Both times I didn't have any openings at the time, but I remembered their names, and when openings came up, I encouraged them to apply.

I like people who take the initiative and show that they're truly interested in the unit.

[cleback]

If you continue to have no luck, maybe consider working at a small rural hospital with OB? I know medsurg nurses have to cross train often and that's how I heard of a few nurses getting their foot in the door.

[cwtheRN]

Update: I have an interview with the L and D unit at the hospital I currently work at. Fingers crossed I get it!

[mtnviews]

Good luck! Let us know how it goes. :)

[cwtheRN]

Update! I was offered the job a week later! You guys tips really helped! Thank you

[midwifemae]

congrats!!

[mtnviews]

Congrats! :)

[afuaak]

Congrats on your job!! I know this thread is old and I'm still a nursing student, but what types of questions do they ask for L&D nursing interviews? Are there scenario questions?

[cwtheRN]

They just basically asked me what drew me to labor and delivery, what can I bring to the table. I mostly showed that I was interested and made eye contact. And I sent a follow up email after my email thanking them.