American’s Got Nurses Interview Article – Obstetric (OB) Nurse

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Becoming an obstetric (OB) nurse is a career choice that is perfect for those who want to work with pregnant women and newborn infants. OB nurses specialize in the care of both and are often the driving force behind the well-oiled machine that is a hospital maternity ward. The job duties associated with an OB nursing position are centered around things like assisting an Obstetrician with childbirth, keeping the delivery room clean and organized, and educating new mothers on breastfeeding and infant care.

Although most of the time, an OB nurse is involved with one of the happiest moments of a family’s life, that isn’t always the case. There are times when an OB nurse will be forced to deal with tragedy on a monumental scale such as failed pregnancies and unhealthy infants or those born with health problems. For this reason, it is important to have a strong heart and fierce dedication to OB nursing before committing to this career path.

Educational Requirements

OB nurses have to be willing to endure a long commitment to education in order to enter this field. Like most nursing specialties, OB nurses are required to become an RN (Registered Nurse) or go a little further and acquire a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) degree before pursuing this specialty career. In addition, extensive on-the-job training and experience in general nursing practices is important in order to be seriously considered as a strong candidate to become an OB nurse.

Work Environment

While it is true that OB nurses have the distinct pleasure of being present for the birthing and care of newborn infants, the same can also be said for the negative health issues that sometimes occur with these same children and their mothers. Working as an OB nurse can be a roller coaster of emotions. Joy is ever present as it always is when new life enters the world. However, mental toughness is crucial for those rare times when birth doesn’t go as it should or when there is another issue with either the mother or child.

Emotional Fortitude Required

Because there is always a chance things will not go as planned, OB nurses must be filled with an unparalleled level of emotional fortitude. Just ask Christy Anderson, Obstetrics Nurse. In an online interview with Mama-to-Mama blog, Christy talks about the difficulties associated with OB nursing, including shift work schedules, breastfeeding assistance, and connecting with patients.

During the interview, she states, “Often you only have minutes to meet the patient before almost immediately being in an emotional and stressful situation.” Anderson goes on to imply that patient attitudes toward OB nurses sometimes come across as, “…patients come in thinking we are the enemy.” Fighting past that kind of stigma is difficult and unless a nurse is willing to see past the accusations and difficulties associated with working as an OB nurse, it may be a good idea to reconsider OB nursing as a personal career choice. However, if mental fortitude is a personal strength – go for it. There will always be a need for more good OB nurses.