Labor & Delivery Nurse School Requirements

Labor and delivery is one of the most popular nursing specialties, and competition for jobs in this field can be tough. For this reason, nurses interested in pursuing careers in labor and delivery should obtain as much advanced training in this field as possible.

Function

Labor and delivery nurses are registered nurses (RNs) with specialized training in caring for mothers pre- and post-partum and throughout labor, as well as their newborns. They work under the supervision of a obstetrician/gynecologist to provide direct patient care and support.

Licensure Requirements

All labor and delivery nurses are RNs who have completed accredited Bachelor's or associate degrees in nursing and successfully passed professional board examinations.

Nursing Coursework

An undergraduate degree in nursing includes training in anatomy and physiology, pathology and disease process, human development, pharmacology and treatment modalities.

Advanced Coursework

RNs may choose to complete advanced coursework in labor and delivery after graduation from nursing school. These programs generally last between 6 to 12 months.

On-the-Job Training

Some hospitals provide training in specialties (including labor and delivery) to their nurses. Others pay for continuing education coursework for employees who commit to remaining on the job for specified amounts of time.

Resources

• Information on Careers in Labor and Delivery Nursing