oncology nurse interested in Ob/GYN

[r.n.my]

Hello all!

I've been an oncology nurse for the past 4 years. After graduating from a BSN program in 2009, during the economic crisis, an oncology position was the only one offered to me and I took it. I started with Adult outpatient chemo treatment. I'm currently an inpatient peds hem/onc nurse. I've learned a lot but I'm starting to admit to myself that this is not what I'm passionate about.

I want a change in my life. and I want to go the route I find passion in.

I've always had an interest in OB/Gyn. After having a baby myself, and being the patient during a challenging and rewarding situation I feel ready to help other women and their families needs.

I don't know where to start. I have some hospitals in mind, but I really don't know how it will play out. How does it work out for nurses out there who switch their units/specialties? How do you prepare for a drastic change?

[iPink, BSN, RN]

I switched specialties. I went from being on a very busy and often stressful ICU stepdown unit to an equally busy but less stressful postpartum unit. The first step is to apply and dust off those old OBGYN/Women's Health books you probably have saved since graduating (in the hopes you'll one day be in that specialty).

Day 1 was a little nervous for me, because I'm use to taking care of four patients due to their acuities to six well moms. The big difference for me was I was able to sit and have conversations with my patients and families.

I continue to learn everyday I work my shift, especially on the nights I'm assigned to work in the nursery (I'm use to providing care for adults). If you are ready to make the specialty change, start embracing yourself in the specialty and don't give up on pursing it.