Nursing student in need of help for L&D nursing elective

[lilagmommie]

Hello Everyone,

L&D is my passion as I am a mother of two little boys. I want to share that experience with others as it is an amazing moment in life.

I am a nursing student currently in my L&D rotation. I am able to take a nursing elective next semester and my school offers an "independent study" option which allows me to create my own elective. I have spoken with my nursing instructor and she has agreed to allow me to volunteer a few hours on an L&D unit, but that will not fill all my time and this is where I need your expertise. What experiences would be good to have for L&D nursing? I need a clinical experience that I can do 9 hours a week or perhaps a research topic? She has told me to come up with some options and we will discuss them. I am also very interested in Midwifery so that is something else I could possibly explore.

Thank you for your help!!!

Jen

[IfnotnowWhen]

I don't know if you are located in a city/urban area, but if so, try a community health center.

I understand labor and delivery in the hospital setting is probably what you want.

There is a lot of pregnancy counseling and prenatal care occurring in these facilities. Many have programs teaching about child nutrition, labor, etc. Most provide health services to expecting mothers as well.

Additionally, some good research topics may arise. Health disparities among expecting minority mothers and the lower economic classes.

Just a thought.

[NPinWCH]

I agree with the previous post. Some sort of prenatal clinic or even maybe time in an OB/GYN or midwife's office would be good. Maybe you could see if there are doulas in your area that would let you spend time with them. The WIC office or health department are also great places to learn. They offer prenatal classes, breastfeeding classes, nutrition classes and lots and lots of education, all of which is excellent to know as a L&D or postpartum/nursery nurse.