What does a Labor and Delivery Nurse do?
A labor and delivery nurse assists women who are getting ready to have a baby. This includes assisting, caring for and advising a woman before she gives birth, during the delivery and post-delivery. Nurses also assist other health care professionals before, during and after delivery. They may work in a hospital, birthing center or clinic.
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Working as a Labor and Delivery Nurse
Labor and delivery nurses play important roles in the care of women in the maternity ward. Their responsibilities include:
- Monitoring mothers' and babies' vital signs
- Offering support and encouragement to mothers
- Assisting with the administering of prescription drugs
- Coaching mothers through labor and delivery
- Helping guide women through the challenging first hours and days of motherhood
How much does a Labor and Delivery Nurse make in the United States?
Average base salary
The average salary for a labor and delivery nurse is $2,482 per week in the United States and $11,875 overtime per year.93.4k salaries reported, updated at December 1, 2023
Where can a Labor and Delivery Nurse earn more?
Compare salaries for Labor and Delivery Nurses in different locations
How much do similar professions get paid in United States?
Registered Nurse - Medical/Surgical
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Registered Nurse - Operating Room
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Registered Nurse
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Registered Nurse - ICU
Job openingsAverage $2,309 per week
Registered Nurse - Emergency Room
Job openingsAverage $2,341 per week
Registered Nurse - PACU
Job openingsAverage $2,395 per week
Common questions about for a Labor and Delivery Nurse
What are the job prospects for labor and delivery nurses?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this field is growing much faster than the general job market as many currently employed nurses enter retirement age. They predict a 15% increase in available jobs between 2016 and 2026.
What are some responsibilities a labor and delivery nurse might have post-delivery?
Labor and delivery nurses play a large role in helping new mothers and babies. Some of their tasks include recovering after giving birth and assisting patients with the breastfeeding process.
What hours do labor and delivery nurses work?
Labor and delivery nurses typically work 12-hour long shifts. Three 12-hour shifts per week are common, allowing labor and delivery nurses to have sufficient time off during the week or to pick up overtime hours. Labor and delivery nurses are needed at all hours, so some shifts may span overnight and early morning hours while others will be during the day.
