Moving from ON to BC

[pumpkin3.14]

Hello :) I'm a labour and delivery nurse currently living in Ontario but hoping to move out to BC in the near future. Because of the high cost of living in BC I'm hoping to find a job before moving or shortly after moving. I wanted to hear from nurses in BC, or more specifically obstetrics nurses.

I have four years experiences which includes high risk postpartum, high risk OB, and LDRP at a community hospital. I've completed a level 1 and level 2 breastfeeding course and am up to date on NRP.

My first question; I'm considering completing a Perinatal certificate but because of the cost of the program I don't want to do this now unless it would greatly contribute to my chances at a job in BC. Is a perinatal certificate something hospitals in BC really want to see or do you think my experience alone would be enough?

My second question; Should a apply with an out of province address or move first and then apply? How is the job market for OB nurses in Vancouver?

[dayandnight]

You can use Healthmatch BC (website) if you want to get a better picture of job opportunities outside of Vancouver as well. Search each health authority websites and you can pretty much see all job opportunities across the province. I would apply first and see if you can get an offer before moving.

[sophie2017]

you already moved?

Thanks

[Vancity_RN, BSN]

No, you don't need to do a perinatal certificate. If you didn't have the experience you have, or were a new grad or looking to venture into L & D from a different speciality, I'd say start the certificate. Many nurses who want to get into L & D will take 1-2 core courses at BCIT in perinatal. This sometimes is enough for employers to initiate employment. Again, this mainly applies to students wanting a preceptorship in L&D, new grads, or someone wanting to switch specialities. If you do this, kill two birds with one stone and do a course that also applies to NICU (and L&D) in case you ever feel the itch to go that route. The breastfeeding course is an example.

However, you are already a L& D nurse! Simply move here and make it happen. Lot's of jobs out here. Check out these health authorities for positions: PHSA (for BC Women's & Children's), VCH, FH, VIH, IH.

Most positions will stem from BC Women's, VCH, or FH as these three health authorities serve the Lower Mainland.