Obstetric Nursing Information
When a woman discovers she is pregnant, feelings of joy and nervousness arise. But, with the help on an obstetric nurse, a woman maybe educated and feel comfortable throughout the entire duration of her pregnancy. This nurse not only assists the expecting mother, but aids the obstetrician as well.
General Information
An obstetric nurse is there for every part of a woman's pregnancy, from birth to delivery to postpartum. His or her goal is to create a safe and healthy pregnancy for women as well as to deliver a healthy baby. This type of nurse conducts sonograms, monitors fetal non-stress tests (FST), observes a pregnant woman's weight gain and answers basic questions that the soon-to-be mother may have. During delivery, he or she may administer epidurals, administer fluid IVs, antibiotics and other medications, monitor the mother's contractions and monitor the vital signs of both the baby and the mother. An obstetric nurse also gives pelvic examinations to determine dilation, and to test for certain diseases and conditions.
Work Environment
Hospitals, OB/GYN offices, clinics, maternity centers, birth centers or other locations that deliver babies or take care of pregnant women need obstetric nurses. The nurse will not only work with the mother throughout her pregnancy and postpartum, but will oftentimes work with the newborn as well. Some nurses in this field earn their lactation consultant certification to assist with mothers and infants who are learning how to breastfeed.
Education Requirements
A nurse in obstetrics needs to obtain an associate's degree or bachelor's degree. Most establishments prefer that the nurse has a bachelor's degree or higher. All nurses must take the NCLEX-RN examine to acquire an RN license. Nurses must keep their certifications current in order to remain practicing as a nurse. In certain states, obstetric nurses must earn specific licensure to work as an obstetric nurse. A year of clinical nursing in obstetrics and gynecology may be necessary.