New nursing student, interested in Midwifery

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Specializes in Med-Surg.

HI everyone. I have just started my LVN program. Alot of people ask why LVN instead of RN, for me right now this is quicker than waiting to get into the RN program, I do plan on bridging after I graduate (Sept 2006)

I am very interested in working in L&D and I have been thinking about becoming a nurse midwife. What training is involved, do I have to be a BSN? Any info would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Shannon

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For L&D, you would need an AA degree in Nursing (ASN), then be licensed RN, and possibly patience to get into that dept. However, to be a nurse midwife you have to have your BSN, get some experience (this varies), and do another year of school to become a CNM (Certified Nurse Midwife). I would recommend that you look at the American College of Nurse Midwives website and buy the MidwiferyToday book, Paths to Becoming a Midwife, it has everything you need to know.

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Most hospitals don't have LVN positions in L&D d/t restrictions on LVN practices (vary by state). Some (especially large teaching hospitals) have no problem hiring new nurses right out of an ADN or BSN program; but be prepared for some let downs (it took me two years to get a job in L&D but I got good experience in cardiac care while I waited and I am comfortable w/my basics, like pt assessment, charting, medication administration, starting IV's, etc.).

Alot of CNM programs require atleast 1yr L&D experience (and more is always better) but all require atleast 1 full year of RN work.

CNM's have a MSN and at most schools full time study takes about 2yrs and 3yrs part time); there are also alot of different entry options and each school varies (so do alot research before you pick the route you want to go).

1) An RN w/BSN enrolls in MSN-midwife program.

2) An RN w/ADN enrolls in RN-BSN option the on to MSN.

3) An RN w/ADN enrolls in RN-MSN (highly selective but saves some time compared to the RN-BSN option).

4) Bridge programs for a MSN for people who have bachelor's degrees in a field other than nursing.

http://www.allnursingschools.com

Hope this helps, let me know if I can help w/anything else. :)

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:yeahthat:

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https://allnurses.com/forums/showthread.php?t=72570

Also, check out this thread titled "Future CNM" and you can always join in that discussion. :)

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