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How can I set myself up for success to become a labor and delivery nurse right after graduating? #Spring25

I am a non-traditional student starting this summer on the path to earn my BSN. I would love to go directly into labor and delivery nursing after graduating (with a goal of becoming a travel L&D nurse after I get some experience) but is this a position that a new nurse can be hired into and what can I do to best set myself up for success to be able to start in this role? #Spring25

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Christine’s Answer

Well congrats on starting your nursing program soon! And that is great you already have a speciality area in mind. I think getting a job on an L&D unit post graduation and getting your license is within the realm of possibility, a lot of it can depend on the area you live and how competitive the market is for nurses. Many moons ago when I graduated it was tough to get a hospital job as they wanted people with experience in the area where I lived, it took me a few months of trying and I started on a medical unit. A year later they were hurting for nurses they started creating these fellowship/extern programs in a variety of speciality areas.

I would recommend looking into extern programs or nursing fellowships at hospitals you might want to work at. They might have programs for new grads to gain experience in speciality areas. Another possible idea to get your foot in the door, is to try and get a job at a local hospital as a tech. (they have different requirements ) but generally you don't need any license, but it will help you gain some skills and if you can become a tech at a local hospital and who knows they might need one on an L&D unit.

Wishing you the very best in your nursing school path.
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much, Christine. Your advice was very helpful! I will check the hospitals in my city to see if they offer extern programs or nursing fellowships, and I can definitely see how working as a tech would help to get my foot in the door. Sarah
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Nicole’s Answer

Look for a teaching hospital that offers internships in your nursing specialty and apply as soon as you can!
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much, Nicole! Sarah
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Tamica’s Answer

Congratulations on starting your journey in labor and delivery nursing! It's such a rewarding field. To help you succeed, consider spending at least a year in general bedside nursing. Many new graduates worry about starting in general nursing, but it really helps you build essential skills. From my experience, nurses who jump straight into maternity often miss out on these important basics. When you have a strong foundation, you'll feel more confident caring for all aspects of a patient's health, not just pregnancy-related issues. Understanding the whole body's processes is crucial for providing the best care to both the mother and baby. Wishing you the best of luck on your path!
Thank you comment icon Thanks so much, Tamica! I really appreciate you sharing your perspective! Sarah
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