How do I stand out as a new grad applying for L&D?

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Hello Everyone!

I am currently half way through my BSN. I still have a little ways to go before graduation but I figure it is never too early to be prepared :). My one true goal and my dream is to one day become a CNM...and to get there I first need to enter the competitive world of L&D nursing. I am extremely passionate about my goals and I am willing to do whatever it takes to make them come true! So I am wondering what I can do and how early I can do them to help me stand out as a new graduate in L&D? I was planning on taking fetal heart monitoring classes as well as getting my NRP certification the summer before graduation. Is this a good idea...is it too early? What other things can I do to increase my chances and to show hiring managers that I am truly dedicated and passionate about this area? Thank you so much in advance for any advice you have. I can't wait to be an RN! :laugh:

Most L&D units require ACLS certification. Some want a STABLE certification as well. See if any of the hospitals in your area are hiring nurses aids or unit clerks in any are of the women's department. My unit has only hired 1 new grad lately that wasn't already an employee in the Women's Services department. It can be done, but also know that it might not happen for you right away. My one dream is to be a CNM as well, but I've been a nurse for 4 years and just got hired into L&D in May. I worked as a Tele/PCU nurse first and it was invaluable experience. Don't discount that life can work out better than the plan you have in your head! Good luck!

Specializes in Nurse Manager, Labor and Delivery.

I would never expect you to have NRP or ACLS or STABLE coming into an interview, nor would I give that a LOT of weight. But thats me. To me...and its only me...I would look more favorably on you if you had been an extern on my unit, or a CNA. I would have the benefit of seeing how you interact, learn and work with others. The certifications mean nothing to me unless you can use them, and honestly if I hire you, you would take those anyhow.

I honestly don't know how non licensed folks take these certifications? Do places really just offer NRP, STABLE and ACLS to just anyone who wants to take them? I have taughts NRP and Fetal Monitoring and have never had anyone other than nurses or MDs take it. Just wondering.....

They do let nursing students take them, but of course it costs quite a bit of money. I am only saying about the certifications because one interview I went to suggested I get those things to make myself more marketable. However, I kind of found that insulting when I interviewed because I had excellent recommendations from managers and supervisors and I thought my work ethic should speak above my lack of certifications that I had no use for unless I actually got a job in a unit requiring those certifications. I guess it all depends on who is doing the hiring.

Specializes in LD.

Hello. I just graduated and was hired on a L&D unit. I did not have these certifications although some classmates and I were pondering over whether we should get them as well. I agree and have heard many others say that, unless you use the knowledge you have learned in the classes, they really are no benefit. I was thinking though before I got hired that taking the classes even without the work experience shows you are serious about your field. But before I took this step, I decided to be proactive and go to the units on several different occassions and introduce myself to the staff, kindly drop off my resume, letting them know I wanted to be there. In the event that I felt like I needed to fall back on taking the certifications I could. I have been orientating for about three weeks now and have not yet taken any certifications... Hope this helps and good luck!

Specializes in LTC, Agency, HHC.

Talk to the hiring manager at the place you want to work. I was lucky to do my LD and leadership clinicals in the hospital I am planning to apply to, once I pass my boards. My preceptor told me to go ahead and get my NRP and fetal monitoring classes done, get a membership through AWHONN, and she registered me for the NRP I take next weekend. It all depends on what the facility likes to see. In my case, they like to see the stuff already done. Shows commitment and tells them you really want to work in that area. And, of course, it saves them money and time since you already have them.

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