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BASIC DESCRIPTION
A labor and delivery nurse works with mothers during the final stages of pregnancy helping with birthing, monitoring the mother’s vital signs, and becoming astute in signs and symptoms of possible complications. They are involved in patient education and addressing the psychosocial needs of mothers after delivery.
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Registered nurse preparation is required.
CORE COMPETENCIES/SKILLS NEEDED
■ Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
■ Excellent assessment skills to asses progression of labor
■ Must provide support for the mother after childbirth and monitor newborn immediately after birth
RELATED WEB SITES AND PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
■ American Nurses Credentialing Center (http://www.nursecredentialing.org/NurseSpecialties/Perinatal.aspx)
■ Perinatal Nursing Institute (http://perinatalnursingfw.org/wordpress/)
■ Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric, and Neonatal Nurses (http://www.awhonn.org/awhonn/)