Labor and Delivery Nurse Career Guide
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Overview
With newborns crying and parents beaming with joy, the labor and delivery (L&D) unit is one of the happiest units in the hospital. L&D registered nurses (RNs) welcome newborns into this world at all hours of the night and day, providing warmhearted care to mothers and their newborn babies. This job perk makes L&D nursing jobs a fulfilling
Education
The initial step to becoming an L&D nurse is earning your undergraduate degree from an accredited nursing program and obtaining a nursing degree, such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The length of study for an ADN program is typically two to three years, while a BSN
Skills
A labor and delivery RN supports mothers throughout their delivery while ensuring their newborn’s safety. L&D is a nursing specialty that requires a friendly yet knowledgeable nurse. Additional essential skills include:
Teamwork and ability to communicate effectively
Exceptional critical thinking and problem-solving skills
Close attention to detail with strong organization and prioritization skills
Empathy and compassion for new parents and their families
Another vital skill
Responsibilities
Your labor and delivery RN responsibilities revolve around providing specialized care to women during pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period. Your primary role is to ensure the safety and well-being of both the mother and the newborn. You closely monitor the progress of labor, assess vital signs and provide pain management interventions as necessary. You assist with labor induction, augmentation
Salary Insights
The average salary for a Labor and Delivery Nurse is $2,353.32 per week.
Last updated on December 12, 2024. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.
Pros & Cons
Your job is welcoming newborns into the world, bringing joy to your patients’ lives and yours. Since it’s typically a more joyous place to work in the hospital, many nurses want to work in the L&D unit. Besides this initial perk, being an L&D nurse has many unique benefits, including the following.
Job Security: According to the Centers for Disease Control
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