long26

As a full-time nurse educator for the last 7 years(and many years as clinical instructor), I have been fortunate enough to keep in touch with some former students as they transition into the RN role. Sad to say, many seem to be having a tough time of it. I got into nursing education because I appreciated the difficulty that I, and many of the new nurses I precepted, had in the transition to the RN role. I'm interested.....What suggestions would you offer to schools of nursing to assist in making your transition from student nurse to registered nurse a smoother time?

I have been working OB for 24 years and now teach it as well. I still love it... sharing a delivery with a family or successfully getting that baby to the breast or just offering support to the new, scared parents...sharing it with students as well is great because I get to see it all new again. As a new nurse, watch the more experienced nurses (find the good ones!), don't be afraid to look things up through the day or at home after your shift. Policies and procedure books can be a great resource...after several times of reviewing them, you will know them all by heart. Take advantage of any continuing education. When I was new to OB, I also asked my patients who were experienced moms, what I should share with the first-timers...patients were glad to share all the "wish I knew then" things. Good luck...OB is a great area to work...challenging and rewarding!

Good luck in your new position! Yes, hospitals vary in how "natural" the birth process plays out, so another facility might be better. However, I have found that, in general, both patients and docs, like this new, high-intervention birthing process. I think it is a shame, but all we can do is our best to support normal labor and delivery.