Labor & Delivery Registered Nurse
Los Alamos, NM
Magnet Medical
3x12 hrs, Days

A Registered Nurse (RN) in Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN) provides specialized care to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum, as well as for gynecological conditions and procedures. This role involves direct patient care, support during labor and delivery, assisting with gynecological procedures, and educating patients on reproductive health. The RN in OB/GYN works as part of a multidisciplinary team to ensure that women receive the highest quality care throughout their reproductive health journey, ensuring safety, comfort, and well-being.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Prenatal and Postpartum Care:

   • Provide care and support to pregnant patients during prenatal visits, assessing the physical and emotional needs of the mother and baby.
   • Monitor fetal heart rate, maternal vital signs, and assess any potential complications during pregnancy, reporting changes to the physician or midwife.
   • Educate patients on prenatal care, nutrition, lifestyle modifications, and labor and delivery preparation.
   • Support mothers during the postpartum period, monitoring physical recovery, managing pain, and assisting with breastfeeding support and infant care.

2. Labor and Delivery Assistance:

   • Provide care during labor and delivery, including monitoring the progress of labor, administering medications (e.g., pain management, IV fluids), and offering emotional support to the patient.
   • Monitor fetal heart tones, maternal vital signs, and contractions, and intervene if any complications arise during labor or delivery.
   • Assist with deliveries, including vaginal births and cesarean sections, under the guidance of physicians or midwives.
   • Provide immediate post-delivery care for both the mother and newborn, including assessments, initiating breastfeeding, and ensuring both are stable and comfortable.

3. Gynecological Care and Procedures:

   • Assist in gynecological exams, including pap smears, biopsies, and other diagnostic procedures, ensuring patient comfort and privacy.
   • Administer medications and treatments as prescribed for gynecological conditions such as infections, menstrual disorders, and reproductive health issues.
   • Educate patients on contraception options, reproductive health issues, and preventive care, such as screenings and exams.

4. Patient Education:

   • Educate patients on reproductive health, including pregnancy, labor, delivery, contraception, and gynecological health.
   • Provide emotional and psychological support, addressing concerns and providing resources for coping with issues such as infertility, miscarriage, or high-risk pregnancies.
   • Offer guidance on self-care, newborn care, and the importance of follow-up appointments for ongoing health maintenance.

5. Collaboration with Healthcare Team:

   • Collaborate with obstetricians, gynecologists, midwives, pediatricians, and other healthcare professionals to provide coordinated and comprehensive care for patients.
   • Communicate effectively with patients, families, and team members, ensuring all aspects of the patient’s care are addressed.
   • Participate in team discussions and care planning, contributing insights into patient progress and outcomes.

6. Monitoring and Documentation:

   • Maintain accurate and detailed documentation of patient assessments, care plans, medications, and any changes in condition.
   • Ensure that records are up to date, compliant with hospital policies, and adhere to privacy and confidentiality standards.
   • Monitor patient progress throughout the labor process, document all events, and provide reports to the attending physician or midwife.

7. Infection Control and Safety:

   • Adhere to infection control protocols to ensure patient and staff safety during gynecological and obstetrical procedures.
   • Monitor patients for signs of infection, complications, or hemorrhage, particularly following delivery or surgery.
   • Follow safety protocols for administering medications, blood products, and managing medical equipment in the OB/GYN unit.

8. Emergency Care and Interventions:

   • Provide immediate care in emergency situations, such as postpartum hemorrhage, fetal distress, or complications during labor.
   • Respond to obstetrical emergencies (e.g., eclampsia, preeclampsia) and gynecological emergencies (e.g., ectopic pregnancy) as needed.
   • Assist with resuscitation efforts, managing medical crises, and supporting families during emergencies.