Thinking of going into OB or Post Partum...

[LINUS]

I'm thinking of transferring into OB or Post Partum. I had clinicals there in school and loved it, but really didn't do much but observe for three days. It was also my best subject in school. Can someone please tell me how their days go in that department? In medsurg we're constantly turning patients, changing linens for the incontinent ones, handing out meds, and changing dressings. I'm just wondering how a normal day goes in OB or Post Partum. I like the excitingness of L&D, but I also like the new mother teaching in Post Partum too. I can't decide...

[webbiedebbie]

Yes...a lot of teaching on Postpartum. Vital signs, fundus checks, perineum checks, breast checks, abdominal incision checks, assist with breastfeeding, IV antibiotics, pain management, starting IV's, taking out IV's, putting in Foleys, taking out Foleys, GYN surgeries, diabetes, hypertension, DVT, hyperemesis, preterm labor, PP hemorrhage, head-to-toe assessment, bonding, PP depression.

No wonder I'm tired!

[mother/babyRN, RN]

No such thing as a "normal" day....You will be doing some of those same things with OB csections and if you also do GYN surgery, to them...Your med surg background will really help you..Don't NOT do the assessment skills you are accustomed to as OB patients are at risk for things like DVT, bleeding and the like.....MUCH teaching...If you get there, do yourself a favor and take advantage of breast feeding classes. You will learn more than you ever thought possible...Good luck...Ask questions...

[Jolie, BSN]

I started my nursing career in the NICU, and was ready for a change after about 5 years. I took a job on a mother-baby unit, doing post-partum at first. I was worried that I would be bored, after the hustle and bustle of the NICU. I couldn't have been more wrong! I loved the job, and especially the teaching aspect of it. I hope you will persue post-partum or mother-baby. It is very rewarding and challenging!