Being a labor and delivery (L&D) travel nurse is an exciting and rewarding experience. L&D nurses help bring new life into the world while working in different healthcare facilities across the country. However, to become a successful L&D travel nurse, there are certain requirements that you need to meet.
Education and Certification
The first thing that you need to become an L&D travel nurse is a diploma or degree in nursing. An associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing is required, and it is also mandatory to have a registered nursing (RN) license. Additionally, there are specialized certifications that you can obtain to further your expertise in the field of L&D nursing. The most common certification is the Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) certification offered by the National Certification Corporation.
Experience
Becoming an L&D travel nurse requires a minimum of two years of experience in L&D nursing. The reason for this requirement is that L&D travel nurses need to be able to work independently and quickly adapt to new working environments.
Flexibility
As an L&D travel nurse, you will be working in different healthcare facilities across the country. This means that you need to have the ability to adapt to new working environments, different policies and procedures, and different cultures. You must be flexible and willing to learn new things.
Physical Requirements
L&D travel nursing requires a physical ability to lift and move patients, stand for long periods, and the ability to handle stressful situations. You must be in good physical condition to be able to handle the demands of the job.
Licensure
Licensure is an important requirement for L&D travel nurses. Each state has its own licensing requirements, and it is the responsibility of the nurse to obtain the necessary licensure for the states they will be working in. Additionally, some states require additional certifications for nurses working in L&D, so it is important to check each state’s requirements.
Travel Requirements
As an L&D travel nurse, you will be required to travel to different healthcare facilities across the country. The travel requirements can vary based on the employer, but most travel nurses are required to have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation. Additionally, some travel nursing positions require air travel, so it is important to have a valid passport.
Conclusion
Becoming an L&D travel nurse can be an exciting and rewarding career option for registered nurses with a passion for obstetrics. However, to become a successful L&D travel nurse, you must meet certain requirements, including education, certification, experience, flexibility, physical ability, licensure, and travel requirements. If you meet these requirements and are interested in working as an L&D travel nurse, you can explore the opportunities available and take the first step towards a fulfilling career.
FAQ |
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What is the average salary of an L&D travel nurse? |
According to Glassdoor, the average salary for an L&D travel nurse is $2,066 per week. |
What is the job outlook for L&D travel nurses? |
The job outlook for registered nurses is expected to grow by 7% from 2019 to 2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Additionally, the demand for travel nurses is expected to increase as the need for healthcare workers continues to grow. |
What is the duration of travel nursing assignments? |
The duration of travel nursing assignments can vary from a few weeks to several months, depending on the employer and the needs of the healthcare facility. |