returning L & D nurse

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Hi - I was an L & D nurse for about 8 years and then left the field for about 10 years to raise my children. Now I would like to return to L & D again. I've always kept my nursing license current, and I have been reading up-to-date materials on L & D nursing (some things haven't changed and some have!). I'm just wondering if anyone has any thoughts/advice on my situation since I haven't practiced for so long? Thanks! :nurse:

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You sound like you have great potential! I'd say go for it. My only caution would be don't expect it to all come flooding back in a few days. Give yourself time to reacclimate. Don't get too frustrated or feel you must be an expert overnight. Best of luck to you!!!:)

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Specializes in L&D, PP, Nursery.

I was an L&D nurse for 5 years, left it for 6 years and recently returned to it 6 months ago. I asked for a lengtly orientation (I got 7 weeks L&D), 2 weeks post partum. They would have given me more if needed. Honestly, it was just like riding a bike! The hardest thing to learn was the hospital's policy and procedures. The clinical stuff came right back to me! You'll be fine! Just make sure you get the orientation you need. Welcome back to L&D!

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Specializes in LDRP.

One of my friends is going through a "return to nursing" refresher course--it is like a one day a week thing. It goes through all the systems and then has a clinical component. I think it sounds like a good idea for any nurse re-entering the field!

Good luck! :)

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