Labor and Delivery Nurse

Each day, more than 10,000 babies are born in the US. Having a baby can be a very exciting time for families. And while giving birth is a completely normal process, it can be very intense and stressful. Labor and delivery nurses are crucial in supporting laboring patients through childbirth. 

Labor and delivery nurses typically work in hospitals, although some may work in stand-alone birthing centers. They are often the first person a family comes in contact with and are the primary source of support and care till the babies are safely delivered. Labor and delivery nurses will monitor the fetal heartbeat and watch for any complications. They can administer medications per the physician’s orders, suggest more comfortable labor positions, and communicate patient needs to other medical staff. Also, they will assist the obstetrician or certified nurse-midwife with the baby’s delivery. 

After the baby is born, labor and delivery nurses will perform initial assessments on the newborn and help with any post-birth care for the parent. This can include delivering the placenta, stitches, and additional medications. If appropriate, they may also help with the first breastfeeding. 

To become a labor and delivery nurse, students must complete a nursing program and earn either an associate of science in nursing or a bachelor of science in nursing. Key skills to excel in this role include staying calm in intense situations, being a strong advocate for the patients, and having infinite patience for the labor and delivery process. State licensure as a registered nurse is required to work in this field, but certification is optional. 

Students need to complete a nursing program to work as a labor and delivery nurse. They can earn either an associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor’s of science in nursing (BSN). While both degrees are sufficient to enter this field, employers overwhelmingly prefer a BSN.

Students enrolled in a nursing program will often have the opportunity to complete elective classes or a clinical rotation in labor and delivery. This will help them get the knowledge and hands-on experience to find entry-level work in this field after graduation and licensure. 

Admission requirements for nursing schools vary based on the number of applicants, the local demand for nurses, and the program’s rigor. Most schools require applicants to have completed extensive prerequisite coursework, a minimum GPA, letters of recommendation, and a compelling statement of purpose. Some schools may require applicants to have prior volunteer or work experience. 

Nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Accreditation is critical as it assures students, employers, and licensing boards that a program has met a minimum level of quality in faculty, clinicals, curriculum, facilities, and patient outcomes.

Students should ensure that the program they apply to has the necessary accreditation for licensure in their state.

South College

The four-year bachelor of science in nursing at South College can be completed at one of their five campuses across three southern states. Students in this program will acquire all the skills necessary to be nurse generalists, including critical thinking, medical care knowledge, interpersonal skills, and technical competency. There is a strong emphasis on collaboration and teamwork to help students understand how to work in a department for better patient outcomes effectively. 

The liberal arts education that must be completed alongside nursing classes gives students an interdisciplinary experience and helps create more well-rounded nurses. The program’s first two years are general education and core/prerequisite classes. Upon successfully completing those two years, students embark on an intensive two-year nurse training that includes clinical and laboratory training. 

• Location: Florida, Tennessee, and Georgia
• Duration: Four years
• Accreditation:  Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

San Joaquin Delta College

San Joaquin Delta College offers an associate’s degree in nursing for nurses. While this program is not specific to labor and delivery nurses, there is the possibility of completing clinical rotations in labor and delivery to help prepare nurses for this career. Graduates of this program have historically been well prepared to pass the NCLEX-RN exam, with over 91 percent of students passing it on the first try since 2015.

As with most nursing programs, admission to this degree is highly competitive. Applicants receive a ranking status based on prior education, prerequisite coursework, volunteer and work experience, life circumstances, second language proficiency, and other healthcare licenses or certificates. The top-ranked applicants fill ninety percent of the spots for the program, while the remaining 10 percent are chosen from the rest of the qualified applicants at random.

• Location: Stockton, CA 
• Duration: Two years
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

University of Miami – School of Nursing and Health Studies

Ambitious students can complete an intensive one-year accelerated bachelor of science in nursing at the University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies. Housed in the state-of-the-art M. Christine Schwartz Center for Nursing and Health Studies, this program offers students the very learning environment. With over 170 clinical partnerships, students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a variety of healthcare settings, including in labor and delivery.

Because this is an accelerated program, students are expected to have completed a bachelor’s degree and have extensive prerequisite coursework to have the background necessary to succeed. Required classes include chemistry, anatomy, human physiology, microbiology, nutrition, and statistics. The two start dates each year are in January and May, allowing students some flexibility in completing their program. 

• Location: Miami, FL 
• Duration: One year
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Methodist Health Systems (Residency)

Recently graduated registered nurses, or those with less than one year of work experience, can apply for and complete a labor and delivery nurse residency with the Methodist Health System in Dallas, Texas.

This one-year program includes classes to prepare nurses to care for this unique population and hands-on experience with patients in the hospital. Nurse residents are typically one year long, and participants may not take any vacation. This is a full-time position, and participants must work at least 36 hours a week for the residency.

While a bachelor of science in nursing is preferred for applicants to these fellowships, outstanding students with associate’s degrees will also be considered. A current unencumbered Texas registered nursing license is required to apply.

• Location: Dallas, TX
• Duration: One year
• Accreditation:  American Nurses Credentialing Center

UC Health (Fellowship)

UC Health in Aurora, Colorado, offers licensed registered nurses the opportunity to complete a women and infant services fellowship. In addition to labor and delivery, nurses in this program can also complete their fellowship in the NICU or mom and baby nursing. These programs vary in length from six to 14 weeks. This fellowship is specifically designed for nurses without experience in this field. Upon completion of the program, it is anticipated that nurses will be competent and skilled in labor and delivery. 

In addition to working directly with patients, nurses in this program will take ancillary classes to add to their knowledge and skills. These classes include fetal heart monitoring, pain management, and lactation consultation. Nurses will work with preceptors who will guide them through their program and help ensure they gain the necessary education and skills. 

• Location: Aurora, CO
• Duration: Six to 14 weeks
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Since most nursing degrees are generalist programs, students may receive limited labor and delivery education. 

Western Governors University

Students in Florida, Indiana, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, or Utah can complete the hybrid bachelor’s of science in nursing at Western Governors University. Although most of the coursework is offered online, students must attend in-person labs and clinicals. To ensure students are prepared for the rigorous coursework, they must complete 10 prerequisite classes. 

The first term of this program is a pre-nursing curriculum that does not include clinical courses and is designed to get students up to speed. The subsequent terms are all clinical nursing curricula. Students can finish this program in as little as three six-month terms, although most students complete the degree in five. Since this is a competency-based program, students must demonstrate they understand the material and can complete the degree at their own pace rather than being beholden to a schedule.   

• Location: Florida, Indiana, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, or Utah
• Duration: Two-and-a-half years
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Colorado Technical University

Registered nurses who want to earn a bachelor of science in nursing can complete the online program at Colorado Technical University. With eight start dates a year and asynchronous classes, this program is incredibly flexible and students can complete it while still working. Clinical experiences can even be completed in the student’s home community, so relocation is unnecessary. This program not only aims to prepare students to handle the complex needs of patients but also to step as leaders in their workplace. 

To be eligible for this program, applicants must already be licensed registered nurses. Required coursework includes challenges and trends in contemporary nursing, nursing informatics, population-based nursing, alternative and complementary interventions, and safety and quality improvement in nursing practice. Students must also complete general education requirements in English, ethics, and history or government affairs. 

• Location: Colorado Springs, CO 
• Duration: As little as nine months
• Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Rasmussen University Nursing School

Rasmussen University Nursing School offers a hybrid associate degree in nursing at 19 campuses across five states. This flexible program features online coursework with in-person labs and clinicals. The curriculum emphasizes patient-centered care, evidence-based practices, and professional confidence. Students who graduate from this program are also well prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and begin entry-level work as licensed nurses. 

Unlike many other programs, there are no prerequisites for this program, and many campuses do not have a waitlist. If a campus has a waitlist, students don’t need to reapply and can wait until a spot is available in the program. There are many support services to help students succeed, including academic advising, tutoring, financial aid counseling, and 24/7 technical support. 

• Location: 19 campuses in five states
• Duration: 18 months
• Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing

Association of Women, Health Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses

The Association of Women, Health Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN) is the premier association for nurses in women’s care and obstetrics, and it offers outstanding continuing education options for nurses who work in this field. All nurses must complete continuing education units to maintain their licenses, which is an excellent way to meet those requirements while gaining more labor and delivery care skills.

The online courses vary in length, but most can be completed in about an hour. Many courses are free for AWHONN members, while non-members’ fees are around $30 to $40 per course. Topics include abortion, polycystic ovarian syndrome in teenagers, implications of pregnancy in bariatric patients, and vitamin K prophylaxis. 

• Location: Online 
• Duration: Varies
• Accreditation: American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation

Nurse.com

Aspiring and current labor and delivery nurses can complete their continuing education requirements online through Nurse.com. Courses offered are accredited and meet most requirements for licensure and certification maintenance. Topics include cultural considerations for childbirth, the importance of folic acid, breastfeeding basics, and domestic abuse. Nurses can complete the coursework on their own time and learn about new and interesting topics to help them be better healthcare providers.

Labor and delivery nurses pursuing certification can complete the online Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) certification review course. This program will help prepare nurses for their certification exam and provide 8.75 contact hours of continuing education. 

• Location: Online
• Duration: Varies
• Accreditation: American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)

Please check out the registered nurse and nurse practitioner pages for more information on degree programs.

The minimum time to become a labor and delivery nurse is two years, as that is the average time it takes to complete an associate’s degree in nursing. However, a four-year bachelor’s degree is preferred and highly recommended. 

Step 1: Graduate from High School or Complete a GED (Four Years)

A high school diploma or GED is the first step to becoming a labor and delivery nurse. This base level of education prepares students for future studies and demonstrates an ability to complete an educational program. Aspiring labor and delivery nurses should focus on math and science classes as well as any college preparatory or advanced placement courses. 

Step 2: Complete a Nursing Program (Two to Four Years)

All labor and delivery nurses must complete a general nursing program. These programs vary from two to four years, depending on the level of degree pursued. An associate’s degree in nursing is sufficient to become a registered nurse, although a bachelor’s of science is preferable. 

Step 3: Pass the NCLEX-RN exam (Timelines Vary)

All states require nurses to pass the National Council Licensure Examination Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) exam. This test measures nursing knowledge and skill and determines if a candidate can practice as a nurse. 

Step 4: Apply for State Licensure (Timelines Varies)

Once a nurse has passed the NCLEX_RN, they can obtain a registered nurse license through their state’s board of nursing. Requirements vary by state. More details can be found in the certification and licensure section below.  

Step 5: Obtain Entry-Level Work in Labor and Delivery (Timelines Vary)

Once education and licensing requirements have been met, nurses can apply for entry-level work in labor and delivery. Initially, they may have to work under a mentor or complete a fellowship to gain the necessary skills. 

Step 6: Earn a Labor and Delivery Nurse Certification (Optional, Timelines Vary)

The most common voluntary certification labor and delivery nurses earn is the  Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) through the National Certification Corporation (NCC). More details can be found in the certification and licensure section below.

Labor and delivery nurses primarily work in hospitals, although some may work at stand-alone birthing centers. They work alongside certified nurse-midwives or obstetricians to help babies safely enter the world. Typical duties can include:

• Checking patients in who are in labor or waiting for a c-section or induction
• Monitoring patient and baby’s vital signs
• Administering medication by doctor’s orders
• Watching patients closely for any possible complications
• Comforting patients through labor, including helping them change position 
• Educating patients on the labor process and their options
• Assisting with baby delivery
• Performing initial newborn exams
• Helping the doctor with post-labor sutures

All labor and delivery nurses must be licensed registered nurses in the state where they practice. Requirements vary by state’s nursing regulatory body, but all include having completed a nursing education program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Many states required background checks and drug screenings as well. 

While certification is not required for labor and delivery nurses, this optional step can be professionally advantageous. Some employers may require certification, and it can help when applying for a job or seeking a promotion. The primary certification for labor and delivery nurses is the Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) credential through the National Certification Corporation (NCC). The eligibility requirements for this certification are:

• Hold an unencumbered nursing license
• Twenty-four months and at least 2,000 hours of specialty experience. This experience can include patient care, administration, research, and education. 
• Employment in this specialty in the past 24 months

Once eligibility has been determined, nurses will be approved to take the exam. The exam costs $325, takes three hours, and consists of 175 questions. Topics include:

• Complications of Pregnancy 
• Fetal Assessment
• Labor and Birth
• Recovery, Postpartum, and Newborn Care 
• Professional Issues

Labor and delivery nurses are categorized as registered nurses for salary determination purposes by the Bureau of Labor Statics (BLS May 2023). On average, the 3,175,390 registered nurses in the US earn $94,480. The percentiles for wages are:

• 10th percentile: $63,720
• 25th percentile: $75,990
• 50th  percentile (median): $86,070
• 75th percentile: $104,670
• 90th percentile: $132,680

Here are a few alternatives to a labor and delivery nurse career. 

Become a Certified Nurse Midwife

Certified nurse midwives are advanced practice nurses who have received additional training in labor and delivery, as well as women’s and infant care. While they most often care for pregnant or postpartum women, they can provide services to women at any stage of their lives. 

• Typical Education: Master’s or doctorate
• Licensing or Certifying Organization: American Midwifery Certification Board (ACMB)

Become a Doula

Doulas provide emotional and physical support to women during childbirth and postpartum. While doulas are not healthcare providers, they do have a deep understanding of the childbirth process and can provide education and advocacy for pregnant and laboring patients. 

• Typical Education: Certificate
• Licensing or Certifying Organization: DONA International 

Become a Lactation Consultant

Breastfeeding can be challenging for both new and experienced parents. Lactation consultants can support and educate parents at any point in their breastfeeding journey. They can provide care to clients in the hospital, clinics, or even their homes. 

• Typical Education: Certificate
• Licensing or Certifying Organization:  International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE)

Kimmy Gustafson

Writer

At HealthcareDegree.com, Kimmy Gustafson has delivered in-depth and insightful articles since 2019, aiding prospective students to navigate the complexities of choosing the right healthcare degree. Her recent work includes topics such as the ethics of gene editing and physician assistant’s fight for autonomy.

Kimmy has been a freelance writer for more than a decade, writing hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics such as startups, nonprofits, healthcare, kiteboarding, the outdoors, and higher education. She is passionate about seeing the world and has traveled to over 27 countries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. When not working, she can be found outdoors, parenting, kiteboarding, or cooking.

Rachel Drummond, MEd

Writer

Rachel Drummond has written about integrating contemplative movement practices such as yoga into healthcare professions since 2019, promoting the idea that mental and physical well-being are critical components of effective patient care and self-care in the high-stress world of healthcare.

Rachel is a writer, educator, and coach from Oregon. She has a master’s degree in education (MEd) and has over 15 years of experience teaching English, public speaking, and mindfulness to international audiences in the United States, Japan, and Spain. She writes about the mind-body benefits of contemplative movement practices like yoga on her blog, inviting people to prioritize their unique version of well-being and empowering everyone to live healthier and more balanced lives.