Mother/baby and L&D

[jenoglv]

I've recently begun working in a Mother/Baby unit. While it is leaps and bounds better than where I came from (Neuro/Telemetry), I don't know that I could see myself staying here for 5 or 10 plus years. I've always been interested in L&D (but we all know it can be hard to get in to), as well as at some point maybe going for my CNM. I know I'll be in Mother/Baby for at least a year so that I can get my IBCLC. Do you think I should stick it out for 2 years so I could get my certification, or if I decide L&D is where I want to be, try moving to that department after a year? While I think I could probably get into L&D at my current hospital a little easier than a new grad, I would still have to go through a residency (which is a big commitment and a 2 year contract). Any advice from both specialties is welcome.

[RNpathoteacher]

Getting into L&D can be tricky, but you are already in the right field. Transfers are easier to train usually. If your goal is a midwife, then L&D is where you need to be.

[Leader25, ASN, BSN, RN]

Go to LD and concentrate on that , and get certificate in rhythm strips ,since you want to pursue CNM,The IBCLC is over rated I had mine since the 80's and never made a penny with it. My employer would not even pay anything extra,now it is all the fad.You do not need it to give breastfeeding advice,hospitals are giving mini certificate classes to entire staff.

[klone, MSN, RN]

I disagree that the IBCLC is overrated. Many/most people I know who have it, do it for personal accomplishment/satisfaction, rather than because they want to make money from it.

I think if you want to be in L&D ultimately, you should go for that when it's soonest available to you, although I think a solid foundation in postpartum is an important aspect of women's health, especially if you do want to become a midwife.

[Skips, MSN, RN]

I work L&D and I am currently cross-training to mother baby.

I would stay where you are in mother baby for a year, then ask to be cross-trained or go full-time to L&D. It's valuable to have postpartum skills. Also, if you think you'll like it, why not enjoy it for some time? (: I really like both units a lot.