New Grad wanting to do Labor and Delivery

[Lauraingalls, BSN, RN]

Hi,

I am set to graduate in 2 weeks. I am having a hard time getting into the L and 😉 market as a new grad. I will have two interviews set up. One is for a Step Down Unit and the other is Mom Baby. I am expecting to work for a year and then try again for labor and delivery. Which job would help my chances?

[klone, MSN, RN]

Mom/Baby

[ashleyisawesome, BSN, RN]

Definitely mom/baby. You will get experience with moms and newborns and get to know the L&D staff (you'll need to take report from the L&D nurses, dealing with the same OBGYNs, etc). Moving from mom/baby to labor and delivery will be an easier transition than going from step down (where many of your patients will be elderly with non-pregnancy related illnesses) to L&D. Plus, if you switch hospitals at some point, many have the same staff for L&D and Postpartum and or have LDRP set ups, so already being trained in PP would be a big plus for a hiring manager.

[Lauraingalls, BSN, RN]

Thanks, I got a call today that there are no more Mom baby positions left. I will interview for the ED. So it's now between stepdown and ED..... 😐

[guest1/12/15]

Don't give up on your dream to be a Labor and Delivery nurse!! It's harder to get into, but if your heart is set on maternal child care, listen to that and follow your passion. It'll be easier to cope with the challenges.