L&D is my dream job... How do I get my foot in the door?

[Mishl029]

Hello all!

I'm a recent grad and have been working in the ER as my first job as a new nurse for over a year, but quickly realized it wasn't the type of nursing I wanted to do. I went into nursing wanting to do L&D, the content in my maternity class fascinated me, and of course I loved my clinical. I thought it would be great experience all around to work in the ER, but now that I've gotten a year of experience under my belt, I was wondering if there was anything out there I could do to give me an edge for applying to an L&D or postpartum position. I've considered looking into shadowing on the L&D floor at my hospital, but it doesn't seem like enough. Do you know of anything I can do to get my foot in the door of the OB world?

Thank you!:)

[eatmysoxRN, ASN, RN]

I'd talk to the manager of the unit and let him or her know you're interested if a position becomes available. Also keep an eye out on nearby hospitals. Good luck =)

~ No One Can Make You Feel Inferior Without Your Consent -Eleanor Roosevelt ~

[alicia125]

I'd talk to the manager of the unit and let him or her know you're interested if a position becomes available. Also keep an eye out on nearby hospitals. Good luck =)

~ No One Can Make You Feel Inferior Without Your Consent -Eleanor Roosevelt ~

That's exactly what I did! I worked in the ED for 10 months and started up a conversation in the hall with the Perinatal director, and when I seem an opening I emailed her. She told me to apply and she would get HR to set up and interview. And I was interviewed by 2 other managers and was hired...

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[Leggings and Lattes]

Make friends with the L&D nurses. We had an ED nurse that we all looooooved because she was so friendly and helpful any time she called up or we had to go down. When we had a slot, and she told us she was applying, we all went to the manager on her behalf as well! Good luck!

[RN_BSN09, RN]

I'd talk to the manager of the unit and let him or her know you're interested if a position becomes available. Also keep an eye out on nearby hospitals. Good luck =)

~ No One Can Make You Feel Inferior Without Your Consent -Eleanor Roosevelt ~

I agree with this post as well! I worked in telemetry for a year, then wanted to switch to OB. I saw a job posting online, and before submitting an application I went that day to speak with the manager.. introduce yourself, tell her you're interested and give her a face to remember the name when she opens up your application. Tell her you wanted to see the unit, and that your current manager knows you are looking for a new job. That same night I submitted my online application, and she called me within the week to set up an interview. GOOD LUCK!! :)

[itsnowornever, BSN, RN]

You can switch jobs with me!

Posting from my phone, ease forgive my fat thumbs! :)

[jkat276]

apply, watch for jobs like a hawk. Make connections with people working on those units. Get further training (breastfeeding counselor, doula training) that gives you an edge! Volunteer with Women's Health organizations/fundraisers/projects. It helps to show your interest and investment, that will give you an edge over other applicants.

[Mishl029]

Thank you so much everyone for all your help! I'm looking for jobs, and there may be an extended graduate internship not too far from me where I can get more intensive training in L&D and neonatal nursing. I appreciate it!