Secret to getting an L&D position

[lambriek]

I have been an RN BSN for 7 years, working in the medical field for 9 years. I have seemingly limited experience because I've worked in the same hospital for all 9 of those years. (Acute Rehab Hospital, with mostly SCI, TBI, multiple fracture patients). I've recently reevaluated my career goals and am following my passion for obstetrics nursing. I've applied to several positions in my area, but can't seem to get past the nurse recruiter (No manager interviews yet). Everyone wants someone with L&D experience. How do you get L&D experience if no one hires anyone with out it? Is there a secret I'm not aware of? Does anyone know how I could beef up my resume (are there any certifications/education I could pursue specific to OB) so I can land my dream job?

I've turned down other jobs, just to pursue my L&D dream, so I'm all in.

[missamelissy]

I don't know that I have any secrets. I did just start in L&D as a new grad thanks to lucking out with an abundance of residencies opening at a nearby hospital.

That said, a few tips:

1) Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) certification will be required for any experienced nurse applicant. I would definitely recommend it.

2) Look for programs that are transition programs. One of the people in my hiring cohort was hired as a "transition to new specialty" title.

3) If you haven't already, consider looking for postpartum opportunities as a way to get your foot in the door of a unit. PP requires more global nursing skills and so you'd be more likely to have skills that directly apply to it. My unit starts inexperienced nurses in PP for 6-12 months and then trains in L&D. Not all hospitals would be like this, but the units will be closely linked enough that it is a good starting place.

4) My last recommendation would be to consider different locations, if that is a possibility for you. My hospital is DYING for maternity center nurses. They had to get administration to approve additional residencies because there just aren't enough experienced L&D nurses. People tend to get their L&D jobs and retire there.

Hopefully some of these tips are helpful. I really wish you all of the best. I feel so lucky to have gotten the job I did and really hope that as I get further into my career, I'll be able to provide better tips! Good luck!

[Spidey's mom, ADN, BSN, RN]

Excellent advice missamellisy!

We are also hurting for L&D nurses.

In a rural setting, you do everything. I worked med-surg, L&D, Post-Partum, baby nurse for cesareans, outpatient, wound care, and ER.

[nurseactivist]

Many nurses do post-partum, WBN first and then transfer. In the hospital where I worked, you could train to be a volunteer doula. That would give you a glimse into the world of L&D and might help you make the case for your sincere interest in L&D.