Is Doula/CBE experiance an advantage or frowned upon when pursueing OB/GYN nursing?

[SiennaGreen]

Just wondering if I should be working the Doula/CBE experiance (and lots of informal breastffeding support) while trying to get my foot in the door of OB? I can only imagine that it's an advantage, but I worked pharm sales before an dheard more than once how managers didn'y like to hire people in who had been trained elsewhere. I guess I'm concerned the idea of some natural birth, lactavist (a bit a of a caricature) might deter some nurse manager from bringing me on.

I am currently in RN program, would like to get started as tech/CNA in OB somewhere prior to graduation, and really do want to move directly into OB, if at all possible. I'm intend to work for a few years prior to purseuing CNM.

[okchug]

I've been a doula for 3 years and always welcomed by L/D nurses. Just keep in mind that in some places, L/D nurse is very different than doula...I've worked with staff @ 1:3 or 4. So while I liked being the doula, I would not have been happy as a nurse there. Docs around here are big on induction and scheduled c-sections too. Choose your facility wisely & always be proud and honest about your doula experience. Good Luck.

[SiennaGreen]

Interesting. I begin OB clinical soon and have been told to expect the above at my site. I am certain that when it comes down to it, you do whatever you can to make a situation the best it can be. I know myself, and I will rise. I also just fear that I will get sad, and grieve a lot, during this rotation.

[okchug]

yes, my OB rotation was tough. I saw heartbreaking situations from 14 yo moms (scared to death) to handing baby over to Child Services because mom tested positive for drugs. BUT with tears also came a sense of worth because as a doula I knew how to support these moms. You will too & you will rise to the occasion....then you go home and cry. I am so thankful for the experience. It opened my eyes to the real struggles of some people. Be Strong.