Labor and Delivery Nurse Jobs Overview
More than 3.6 million babies are born every year in the United States, which means labor and delivery nurses are kept busy. As an L&D nurse, you’re responsible for helping new parents before, during, and after childbirth, making you a vital part of their healthcare team.
Looking for labor and delivery nurse jobs? Credenza has options for you whether you prefer full-time, part-time, contract, temporary, or per diem jobs. Some of the more in-demand roles include:
Labor and Delivery Nurse Education and Skills
In order to become a labor and delivery nurse, you need to earn a degree from an approved nursing school, whether you’re studying to be an NP, RN, or LPN/LVN. RNs can choose either an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor’s of science in nursing (BSN). Keep in mind that for some RN positions, candidates with BSNs may be preferred.
Once you’ve completed your labor and delivery nurse schooling, you have to pass corresponding examinations before you can apply for your license. Then you’ll likely need at least a year of clinical work experience. Working in related specialty areas like pediatrics can put you at an advantage in your job search.
Labor and Delivery Nurse Resume and Cover Letter
Before you apply to a labor and delivery nurse job, take time to refine your L&D resume. Carefully read through the requirements in the job posting, and tweak your resume so that it reflects the employer’s language. For instance, if the description mentions that applicants must exhibit “clinical expertise in antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum care,” use that phrase in your resume. Then use your cover letter to explain how you provide exemplary care both in and out of the LDRP room.
Need more help determining which of your many skills you should emphasize in your application? Check out our sample L&D nurse job description for guidance.
Interviewing for Labor and Delivery Nursing Jobs
As an L&D nurse, you’re no stranger to high-pressure situations, but that doesn’t mean you should walk into a job interview and just hope for the best. Take time to review some of the more common labor and delivery nurse interview questions. This gives you a chance to prepare and practice smart, thoughtful responses in advance rather than struggle to come up with something good to say on the fly.
L&D Nurse Salary
The median salary for a labor and delivery nurse is around $96,000 per year for RNs. Your pay will depend on a number of factors including your level of nursing, years of experience, facility type, employer, and geographic location. For a better picture of labor and delivery nurse jobs’ salary expectations in your area, view the latest openings on Credenza.
Labor and Delivery Nursing Job FAQs
L&D nurse vs. mother-baby nurse — what’s the difference?
Labor and delivery nurse jobs specialize in assisting women in childbirth, providing care during labor, delivery, and the initial postpartum period. However, mother-baby nurse jobs focus on postpartum care, providing support to new mothers and newborns after birth, including newborn care, assistance with breastfeeding, and maternal recovery.
L&D nurse vs. certified nurse midwife — what’s the difference?
A L&D nurse is a registered nurse who typically works under a doctor or midwife’s supervision. A certified nurse midwife (CNM) is an advanced practice nurse who is trained to take the lead in providing prenatal, childbirth, and postpartum care.
L&D nurse vs. OB-GYN nurse — what’s the difference?
While L&D nurses specialize in providing care during childbirth, OB-GYN nurse jobs focus on both obstetrics and gynecology, providing comprehensive care throughout a woman’s reproductive cycle.
How long does it take to get into labor and delivery nursing?
Entering this specialty usually takes about four years for RNs, including education and licensure. If you want to pursue certifications or specializations, your journey could be longer. Many L&D certifications require two years of experience to be eligible to apply.
Ready to Find Labor and Delivery Nurse Jobs?
Check out all the positions available right now. Want additional options? Discover how Credenza can match you with even more nursing jobs that interest you.
