Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported an average salary of $65,470 for registered nurses. Salaries ranged from a low of about $45,000 to over $94,000 annually and vary according to location, work experience, employer and specific nursing role. Labor and delivery nurses are generally employed by hospitals, clinics and physicians’ offices, as well as maternity and birthing centers. The environment is fast-paced and multifaceted, with conditions and duties that can change quickly throughout a shift. Labor and delivery nurses may work rotating shifts, nights, weekends and holidays. To ensure a safe and healthy delivery, labor and delivery nurses should display good judgment, pay attention to details, possess the ability to make quick decisions and be able to work well with others. Good communication skills are also an important part of their job responsibilities, as they are typically in charge of providing education to new …show more content…
Bachelor's degree programs are generally completed in four years, while diploma and ADN programs typically take at least two years. Nursing degree programs generally include courses in chemistry, psychology, anatomy, nutrition, pharmacology, and microbiology. In addition to classroom instruction, nursing programs include supervised clinical training. Step Two: In order to gain licensure, individuals must demonstrate basic nursing skills, provide transcripts, and pass the NCLEX-RN. This exam measures the knowledge and technical skills that entry-level nurses need to perform their jobs safely and efficiently. Some states require that RNs renew their licenses every 2-3 years. Step Three: Licensed RNs may apply to work in hospital labor and delivery units, clinics, physician offices, maternity centers, and birthing centers. Labor and delivery nurses may also be required to have knowledge of neonatal resuscitation and fetal monitoring. Some employers may require experience as a staff nurse prior to being hired as a labor and delivery nurse. Step Four: After meeting the required hours of work experience in labor and delivery, RNs may apply for specialty certification