Planning to pursue a career as a labor and delivery nurse? You’ll be responsible for ensuring the safe delivery of babies and providing emotional support to moms and families throughout the process. In this blog post, we’ll talk about how to become a labor and delivery nurse, so keep scrolling!
Complete a Nursing Degree
You’ll need either a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree or an associate degree in nursing (ADN) in an accredited program. Some employers may prefer to hire nurses with a BSN education. Earning a BSN degree also means that you’ll have more responsibilities, and you may take on leadership roles.
Pass NCLEX
After completing nursing education, you should pass the National Counseling Licensing Exam (NCLEX) to become a registered nurse (RN). This exam contains multiple questions that will test your knowledge, competency, and level of preparedness to work in a clinical setting.
You should also apply for state licensure. While each state has different requirements, you usually need to have an accredited RN advanced degree, a passing NCLEX score, and clinical experience. You will need to show your official transcripts and may have to undergo a background check.
Earn Credentials
To increase your chances of working as a labor and delivery nurse, gain credentials, like the inpatient obstetric nursing certification from the National Certification Corporation (NCC). This will help you handle moms with high-risk pregnancies who get hospitalized before, during, and even after delivery. The certification also proves that you’re highly skilled in dealing with pregnancy complications, newborn care, patient education, and more.
Another certificate that NCC offers is electronic fetal monitoring certification. This shows your competency in using fetal monitoring technology and keeping babies healthy and safe during labor and delivery. The American Association of Pediatrics also offers neonatal resuscitation certification, which helps you provide the highest quality care for newborn babies.
Pursue an Advanced Nursing Degree
Learning how to become a labor and delivery nurse doesn’t end with your BSN degree and other credentials. You might also want to consider earning a master of science in nursing (MSN) degree. This will give you different opportunities, such as higher salaries. However, you’ll also have to fulfill more responsibilities.
You can explore different nursing careers. Examples include being a clinical nurse specialist, advanced practice registered nurse, nurse educator, certified nurse-midwife, and certified registered nurse anesthetist.
If on-campus options are not feasible for you, pursuing MSN online is the key. Several colleges and universities are offering these accredited programs for busy nurses who want to elevate their skills and education for better job opportunities.
Final Thoughts
By completing a nursing degree, passing NCLEX, obtaining certifications and experiences, and pursuing an advanced degree in nursing, you’ll have a promising future as a labor and delivery nurse.
Whether you want to follow this route or even try something different like becoming a postpartum nurse, we’re rooting for you on this challenging yet fulfilling journey!