The Day In The Life of a Labor and Delivery Nurse





    A Labor and Delivery Nurse is one of the most essential personnel on the day of a baby’s birth. They are the comfort, support, and so much more to the doctor and family. When it comes to a shift as a L&D nurse, no shift is the same. Each mom is different and no two births are gonna be the same. They must constantly be ready for anything, as childbirth is extremely unpredictable. They also need to be able to think quickly and clearly because anything can go wrong in a matter of seconds. But saying that, this is what they prepare for. 

Labor and Delivery nurses need to be able to support a mom and whatever her certain wishes may be, but also factor in the need to do what is best for mom and the baby. A L&D nurse will need to have education in neonatal resuscitation as well as fetal monitoring to ensure the best care. This gives them the extra specialization as a nurse and allows them to help make the best care plan for the mom and baby. 


There are many different jobs that a L&D nurse needs to be able to master. This includes timing contractions and keeping an eye on different vital signs not only for the mother but for the baby too and administering any type of medication that is needed to keep the mom comfortable and allow her the easiest birth possible. Some mothers come into the delivery room alone so a nurse should be able to help coach her through the birth and provide whatever support she might need. 


When the baby is delivered, the nurse is going to be one of the main personnel working with the baby. They will check the Apgar score, keep the baby warm, allow skin to skin contact, and help mom learn the ins and outs of breastfeeding. The baby isn’t the only one who needs care after birth. The mom is going to need help learning about different changes that are going to happen after birth and how to properly care for her postpartum body while she is healing. 


This is a short video of a nurse explaining what a day in the life of an L&D nurse can look like. 


This is another short video of the day in the life of an L&D nurse. 

Resources: 

Scott, B., & Health, W. (n.d.). A day in the life of a labor and delivery nurse. A day in the life of a labor and Delivery Nurse. https://www.bswhealth.com/blog/day-in-the-life-ld-nurse

Gunther, A. (n.d.). What to expect from your labor, Delivery & Postpartum nurses. Bridgeport Hospital & Burn Center. https://www.bridgeporthospital.org/articles/what-to-expect-from-your-labor-and-delivery-nurse



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