Is L&D or NICU experience better for CNM/WHNP?

[JennaSnow]

Hello!

I am currently at Adelphi University, about to graduate with my BSN in December 2017 (so excited ). I am interested, long term, in becoming a CNM with a WHNP certificate; or, if I can find some kind of a dual program for the two. I had my OB clinical already and loved it, even though the unit was kind of slow (when I was there at least). I also really loved the NICU in a different hospital I was at for my Peds rotation.

With all of that said, would I be better in L&D or the NICU if I want to pursue becoming a CNM/WHNP? Of course L&D is the best bet, but I figured there would be a benefit in being a NICU nurse considering CNMs do mother and baby care.

Thank you for any responses! I am doing my Capstone in the fall and want to know which area I should consider.

[Lady_Leijing, BSN]

I would think L&D would be your best bet for CNM, but see if you can take STABLE as well as NRP. Both are good if you have a baby that isn't doing well. While I love NICU, you wouldn't get the experience working with the moms like you would in L&D; a lot of NICU nurses I've met will tell you that they "don't take care of big people".

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

Moved....

[LibraSunCNM, BSN, MSN, CNM]

L&D, hands down. Some midwives do newborn care, but not that many, and those that do only really care for well newborns. NICU experience will only expose you to sick babies.

[klone, MSN, RN]

I am interested, long term, in becoming a CNM with a WHNP certificate; or, if I can find some kind of a dual program for the two. .

What would be your reasoning/rationale for doing a dual program? If you want to catch babies, then getting the WHNP would be redundant, because a CNM can do everything a WHNP can do, plus.

The only time I would recommend getting a WHNP is if you have no interest in working in the birth setting, but rather, are just interested in clinic - gyn and prenatal.