What sets CNM's apart from other labor and delivery nurses??

[knikki]

Hello!!

I am interested in becoming a CNM or a NP specializing in OB or neonatology because I would like to work in labor and delivery. I am new to this and I don't quite understand the difference in techniques and the "midwifery model" that every one keeps referring to? I think it is completely acceptable to do things like have an epidural during birth...I would just like to know if it's things like this that mainly set CNM's apart from other nurses working in labor and delivery?

I was under the impression that they were just more specialized in the ability to deliver babies.

I look forward to any comments!! :)

thanks,

kelsey

[CEG]

CNMs are primary care providers. We provide gyne, well woman, prenatal, postpartum, primary care of women, and perform deliveries. Labor and delivery nurses are specialty nurses who take care of women in labor. They work off orders written by OBs, family practice docs, or CNMs because they are not independant health care providers-- however typically they are extremely knowledgeable. With doc deliveries they tend to manage the entire delivery and doc shows up at the end to catch the baby. With CNMs we often "labor sit" and stay with our patients during labor so the nursing role can be less intense.

The midwifery model of care is all about empowering women and treating pregnancy as a normal life event rather than an illness. It encourages women to be active partners in their care. It does not require natural birth. Midwives discuss the risks and benefits with their patients and if they desireit, order epidurals.

Check out www.midwife.org to learn more.