What Is an Ob-Gyn Nurse?
An obstetrics and gynecology nurse is a registered nurse practitioner who provides childbirth and gynecology health care to patients, specifically in areas related to pregnancy, menopause, contraception, sexually transmitted diseases, vaginal infections and pap smears, according to the Health Communities website.
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Education
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The path to a career as an ob-gyn nurse, often begins with licensed practical nurse certification, typically a one-year academic program in which the participant learns to assist registered nurses in caring for patients. The LPN then participates in additional education that culminates in either a registered nurse license or a bachelor's degree in nursing.
Alternatives
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A certified nurse midwife is also a registered ob-gyn nurse, supervising and delivering the care for women before, during and after the labor process. She provides newborn care and educates women on infant parenting, breastfeeding and family planning.
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Responsibilities
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An ob-gyn nurse may care for women with breast, ovarian, uterine or cervical cancer. She may perform physical exams, administer or clarify test results, diagnose and treat illness. At times, the nurse might receive training to conduct biopsies, insert contraceptive devices and assist in surgery.
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References
- Health Communities: Nurse Practitioner Definition, Education, and Training, Licensure and Certification
- EduDecisions: Ob/Gyn Nurse: Education and Training
- University of Michigan Health System: Certified Nurse Midwives
- Association of Physician Assistants in Obstetrics and Gynecology: Frequently Asked Questions
Resources
- Photo Credit Nurse in Scrubs image by Mary Beth Granger from Fotolia.com
