Obstetrics/Gynecology Nurse

What an Obstetrics/Gynecology Nurse Does

Obstetrics/gynecology nurses, also known as OB/GYN nurses, work to help women maintain the health of their reproductive systems and have a healthy and happy pregnancy. Because this is such a broad field, many will choose to further specialize, working with labor and delivery or prenatal care exclusively. OB/GYN nurses must provide support and care for women from the beginning of puberty to menopause and beyond. These nurses perform basic tasks in gynecological and obstetrical offices, as well as discussing treatment options for birth control, STDs and pregnancy with women. These nurses are very often nurse practitioners and will perform gynecological exams, write prescriptions and take samples for tests under the authority of a physician. Much of their work is done with preventative care, screening for disease and checking up on a developing baby, but these nurses must also be trained in t the treatment and care of potential disorders and illnesses of the female reproductive system as well.

How to Become an Obstetrics/Gynecology Nurse

In order to become an OB/GYN nurse, you'll need to complete a number of educational, licensure and certification processes. The first step is to take on a bachelor's or associate's degree program in nursing with the intent to become an registered nurse. This will give nurses the knowledge they need to take and pass a state licensing exam called the NCLEX-RN. Students must pass this exam to be able to work as practicing nurses in the field. Training to work in this field doesn't end here, however and can take a couple more years to complete. Nurses must meet several requirements before being allowed to take the certification exam they'll need to work as OB/GYN nurses. They'll need to work as an RN for at least two years, complete a set number of clinical hours and take additional in-class courses on OB/GYN topics. Once this is completed, they can take the certification exam and start working as OB/GYN nurses.

Career Outlook for Obstetrics/Gynecology Nurses

Overall, nurses should see an excellent job market for the next eight to ten years, as predicted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In general, jobs for registered nurses should rise around 22%, but those focusing on OB/GYN care could see that or more in terms of job growth. Of course, like any other field there are a number of factors that can influence this. The first is education. Those with more training, especially those who complete a nurse practitioner program, will have the best prospects for finding work. The next is experience. The more experience you have in the working world both generally and in OB/GYN practice specifically, the better your chances of getting the job you want. The third is geographic location. Some areas will simply need more nurses in this specialization than others. These factors can influence finding a job, but generally, OB/GYN nurses should be able to easily find work that suits their needs.