for major choice
Exp. group = experimental group, Cont. group = control group.
The correlations between the variables are shown in Table 2 . Learning attitude was correlated with metacognition ( r = 0.669, p < 0.01) and critical thinking ( r = 0.678, p < 0.01), and metacognition was correlated with critical thinking ( r = 0.629, p < 0.01).
Correlation between variables.
r ( ) | |||
---|---|---|---|
Learning Attitude | Metacognition | Critical Thinking | |
Learning Attitude | 1 | 0.669 (0.000) ** | 0.678 (0.000) ** |
Metacognition | 1 | 0.629 (0.000) ** | |
Critical Thinking | 1 |
** p < 0.01.
The effects of S-PBL compared with the traditional maternity clinical practicum are shown in Table 3 . Learning attitude ( t = −3.94, p < 0.001) and critical thinking values ( t = −2.78, p = 0.008) in the experimental group were significantly higher post-training, as compared to pre-training. Meanwhile, there was no significant change in learning attitude, metacognition, and critical thinking in the control group. In particular, post-training critical thinking was lower in the control group than in the pre-test critical thinking ( t = 0.26, p = 0.798).
Effects of S-PBL.
Characteristics | Mean (SD) | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Exp. ( = 47) | Cont. ( = 31) | |||||
Pretest | Posttest | t/ | Pretest | Posttest | t/ | |
Learning Attitude | 60.87 (6.51) | 63.36 (6.58) | −3.94 (<0.001) ** | 61.26 (6.55) | 62.23 (6.04) | −1.01 (0.319) |
Metacognition | 46.89 (6.15) | 48.15 (5.92) | −1.91 (0.063) | 47.06 (5.46) | 48.74 (5.40) | −1.52 (0.140) |
Critical Thinking | 103.66 (8.71) | 106.30 (10.51) | −2.78 (0.008) * | 105.13 (11.42) | 104.65 (11.38) | 0.26 (0.798) |
* p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, * Exp. group = experimental group, Cont. group = control group.
In order to verify the effects of the S-PBL, this study compared the learning attitudes, metacognition, and critical thinking of the nursing students that participated in the S-PBL and those that participated in the traditional maternity nursing clinical practicum. The results showed that nursing students who had participated in the S-PBL had significantly better learning attitudes and critical thinking post-training, as compared to pre-training.
In a study by Hwang and Kim [ 17 ], no significant difference was found in the learning attitude and critical thinking of nursing students that used PBL compared to traditional lecture-based learning. However, the results of this study showed that the practice-oriented S-PBL significantly improved learning attitudes and critical thinking in nursing students. During the clinical practice period, the scope of nursing students’ nursing experiences varied depending on the training department and patient cases. Considering the limitations of the clinical practicum, S-PBL with the use of a high-fidelity maternal simulator, which is designed to reproduce the characteristics of various patients in a simulation laboratory that is similar to clinical settings, can provide nursing students with more practical nursing cases and direct nursing experience; as such, it is more effective in improving nursing competency than the traditional clinical practice method [ 10 , 11 ]. Additionally, our study had considered the effect of the learning style such as the participants’ self-reflection and instructor performance skill checklist during the behavior evaluation stage of S-PBL. Further study should evaluate the effect of various learning styles using a high-fidelity simulator.
This study showed that S-PBL improved critical thinking in nursing students. The ultimate goal of improving critical thinking is to nurture nurses who are critical thinkers, with critical thinking skills and disposition [ 24 ]. According to the results of previous studies, critical thinking in nursing students was closely correlated with nursing competency [ 25 ], which is consistent with the goal of nursing education. In other words, critical thinking is an expected outcome of a nursing education program and an essential component of baccalaureate nursing education [ 2 ]. Since there is a need for the integrated education of critical thinking, problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork in nursing students with various learning style [ 26 ], various learning methods that reflect such needs, such as S-PBL, should be considered in nursing education.
However, in this study, no significant difference was found in metacognition post-training, as compared to pre-training. Metacognition refers to learners’ awareness of their thinking process as they learn so that they can plan, check, and control the entire learning process [ 19 ]. Metacognition is a key element in the strategic aspects of the problem-solving process [ 20 ], and is closely related to problem-solving ability [ 27 , 28 ]. It has been found that metacognition is learned and enhanced by learners in practical problem-solving situations [ 20 ]. Considering that the nursing students in this study were exposed to S-PBL for the first time, and participated in S-PBL for a short period, it is thought that nursing students’ long-term and repeated experiences of S-PBL in nursing curricula can improve metacognition in the whole learning process and the problem-solving process. In other words, nursing students monitor the process of solving nursing problems through S-PBL, which goes through the process of developing new metacognitive knowledge or modifying existing metacognitive knowledge in another S-PBL. Through this self-regulated learning, metacognition is acquired. Therefore, further studies are needed to develop and apply various learning strategies using S-PBL in nursing education.
Since S-PBL-related studies are scarce in Asian countries compared to Europe and North America [ 1 ], the study of this S-PBL approach in the Republic of Korea is of great significance to nursing education and studies. In particular, this study is meaningful for having demonstrated the use of S-PBL in improving learning transfer in nursing students through the provision of comprehensive simulation experiences of nursing, during stages 1 to 4 of childbirth. Considering the difficulties and risks involved for nursing students in gaining direct experience of working with patients during the COVID-19 pandemic, the nursing simulation used in this study may offer an opportunity to gain the necessary nursing skills while also ensuring the safety of both the patient and the student. A lot of care went into planning how students will be placed and for how long, and informed consent was obtained from them before they started clinical practice during the study [ 29 , 30 ]. Furthermore, based on the results of this study, it is necessary to apply S-PBL using systematic and integrated maternity nursing simulations, so that nursing students can learn a variety of maternity nursing cases.
This study has several limitations. Nursing students’ self-assessment of learning attitude, metacognition, and critical thinking using the structured questionnaires poses limitations such as subjectivity. In addition, it is uncertain whether the difference between the intervention group and the control group comes from the learning styles such as learners’ self-reflection or instructor’s performance skill checklist or the use of a high-fidelity simulator. However, this study was based on the most widely used training evaluation model in the world. Considering the problem of the short-term program, this study finally suggested a long-term S-PBL program with a variety of nursing cases specially tailored to get nursing students to transfer learning in nursing curricula.
This study suggested that nursing colleges incorporate S-PBL into the learning process so that nursing students can strengthen their learning attitude, metacognition, and critical thinking in their practical nursing education.
In maternity nursing, where the delivery process and outcome are difficult to predict and emergency situations frequently occur, the direct nursing care provided by nursing students is limited. In view of the fact that the birth rate in South Korea is very low, it is necessary to apply systematic and integrated maternity nursing simulations through which nursing students can learn various cases of maternity nursing as alternatives to supplement clinical practice. Under the circumstances where the development and application of S-PBL is required, the results of this study confirmed the effects of S-PBL-based nursing practicum on learning attitude, metacognition, and critical thinking in nursing students using a high-fidelity maternal birth simulator related to the main nursing care to be provided during delivery from phase 1 to phase 4 deliveries. Through its findings, this study provided evidence for promoting S-PBL. Finally, to promote nursing students’ learning transfer through S-PBL, it is suggested to determine various aspects of the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of nursing students in more objective ways, and to consider various learning methodologies in practical nursing education.
This work was supported by a National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grant funded by the Korean Ministry of Science, ICT & Future Planning (No. 2020R1G1A1010895).
The author declares no conflict of interest.
Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.
What is a labor & delivery nurse a labor and delivery nurse is a specialized healthcare professional who works primarily in the labor and delivery units of hospitals or standalone birthing centers. they have the important role of caring for and supporting expectant mothers and their babies throughout the labor, delivery, and immediate post-childbirth period. their duties cover every aspect of the birthing process, from early labor to postpartum recovery, with a primary focus on labor and delivery. they work alongside other medical staff to ensure a safe and smooth delivery process, monitoring vital signs, administering medications, assisting with epidurals, and providing support during childbirth. in addition to their clinical responsibilities, labor and delivery nurses also have the role of educating and supporting parents about newborn care, breastfeeding, and recovery after childbirth. they are an essential source of emotional support, comforting and guiding patients through what can be both a joyful and stressful experience. they answer questions, address fears, and empathize with the expectant mother throughout the journey. while they work closely with obstetric nurses who oversee the woman's gynecological health more broadly, labor and delivery nurses have a more concentrated focus on the childbirth process itself. this rewarding nursing specialty is a great career path for those interested in a hands-on, patient-focused role in healthcare. what does a labor & delivery nurse do labor and delivery nurses perform a wide range of duties related to the care of pregnant women and their newborns. their responsibilities typically include: assessing the patient: they monitor and assess the condition of mothers before, during, and after labor. this includes tracking contractions, checking dilation, monitoring vital signs, and interpreting fetal heart rate patterns. administering medications and treatments: labor and delivery nurses administer pain medications, including epidurals, and other necessary treatments. they also prepare patients for c-sections when needed. assisting during childbirth: they work alongside doctors or midwives during delivery, providing assistance as needed. they might help guide the mother during pushing, perform episiotomies, or assist with vacuum or forceps deliveries. postpartum care: after delivery, these nurses continue to monitor the health of the mother and the newborn. they help mothers initiate breastfeeding, perform newborn assessments, provide wound care, and manage postpartum complications if they arise. patient education: labor and delivery nurses provide valuable education to new parents on topics such as infant care, breastfeeding, and postpartum recovery. emotional support: aside from the physical care, these nurses also offer emotional support to families during the birthing process, addressing their concerns and reassuring them throughout the experience. emergency response: in the event of complications during labor and delivery, these nurses are equipped to respond swiftly and effectively. they may assist with emergency c-sections, neonatal resuscitation, and manage other obstetric emergencies. the role of a labor and delivery nurse is demanding and dynamic, requiring a strong knowledge base, skilled technical ability, and a compassionate and empathetic approach to patient care. it offers the opportunity to participate in a key moment in a family's life, making it a deeply rewarding specialty for many nurses. { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "faqpage", "mainentity": [{ "@type": "question", "name": "what is a labor & delivery nurse", "acceptedanswer": { "@type": "answer", "text": "a labor and delivery nurse is a specialized healthcare professional who works primarily in the labor and delivery units of hospitals or standalone birthing centers. they have the important role of caring for and supporting expectant mothers and their babies throughout the labor, delivery, and immediate post-childbirth period." } },{ "@type": "question", "name": "what does a labor & delivery nurse do", "acceptedanswer": { "@type": "answer", "text": " assessing the patient: they monitor and assess the condition of mothers before, during, and after labor. this includes tracking contractions, checking dilation, monitoring vital signs, and interpreting fetal heart rate patterns. administering medications and treatments: labor and delivery nurses administer pain medications, including epidurals, and other necessary treatments. they also prepare patients for c-sections when needed. assisting during childbirth: they work alongside doctors or midwives during delivery, providing assistance as needed. they might help guide the mother during pushing, perform episiotomies, or assist with vacuum or forceps deliveries. postpartum care: after delivery, these nurses continue to monitor the health of the mother and the newborn. they help mothers initiate breastfeeding, perform newborn assessments, provide wound care, and manage postpartum complications if they arise. patient education: labor and delivery nurses provide valuable education to new parents on topics such as infant care, breastfeeding, and postpartum recovery. emotional support: aside from the physical care, these nurses also offer emotional support to families during the birthing process, addressing their concerns and reassuring them throughout the experience. emergency response: in the event of complications during labor and delivery, these nurses are equipped to respond swiftly and effectively. they may assist with emergency c-sections, neonatal resuscitation, and manage other obstetric emergencies. " } },{ "@type": "question", "name": "what skills does a labor & delivery nurse need", "acceptedanswer": { "@type": "answer", "text": " medical knowledge and technical skills: a deep understanding of obstetrics, women's health, and neonatal care is essential. this includes being proficient in various medical procedures and using medical equipment related to childbirth. critical thinking and problem-solving: given the unpredictability of childbirth, labor and delivery nurses need to think on their feet and make swift decisions. they need to quickly assess situations, analyze patient data, and identify any potential complications. communication skills: clear and empathetic communication with patients, their families, and the medical team is crucial. nurses need to explain complex medical information in a way that patients can understand and must also be good listeners. patience and stamina: the labor and delivery process can be long and physically demanding. nurses must have the physical endurance for long hours on their feet and the patience to provide care during extended labors. emotional resilience: the labor and delivery ward can be a place of great joy and, sometimes, significant sorrow. nurses need to cope with high-stress and emotional situations, including complications or loss. attention to detail: precise documentation and careful monitoring of the mother's and baby's vitals are essential parts of ensuring safe and effective care. teamwork: labor and delivery is usually a team effort, involving doctors, nurses, midwives, and often anesthesiologists and pediatricians. nurses need to collaborate effectively with a diverse team. empathy and compassion: providing emotional support to patients during labor and delivery is as important as the physical care nurses provide. they must be able to empathize with their patients' situations and deliver care with compassion and sensitivity. adaptability: every patient, baby, and birth is unique, so labor and delivery nurses need to adapt to different situations, patient needs, and potential complications. advocacy skills: nurses often act as advocates for their patients, ensuring their needs, wishes, and rights are respected throughout the labor and delivery process. " } }] } what skills does a labor & delivery nurse need.
Becoming a successful labor and delivery nurse requires a variety of skills. These include:
To become a labor and delivery nurse, you must first obtain a degree in nursing. This could be an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). After graduation, passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) is a prerequisite to becoming a registered nurse (RN).
Once you've obtained RN status, gaining experience in a hospital setting, preferably in obstetrics or a related field, is usually required before transitioning to the Labor and Delivery unit.
To enhance their skills and career prospects, labor and delivery nurses often pursue additional certifications. Two notable certifications are the Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) and Electronic Fetal Monitoring (C-EFM) certifications, offered by the National Certification Corporation (NCC). These certifications validate a nurse's expertise in caring for pregnant women and monitoring the fetus, respectively, making them highly valued in the labor and delivery nursing field.
Advancing your career as a labor and delivery nurse involves a combination of experience, education, and networking. Firstly, accumulating years of experience on the L&D floor can increase your understanding of the specialty and make you a more valuable team member. Beyond direct patient care, look for opportunities to take on leadership roles, such as charge nurse or nurse manager, as this can provide essential administrative and management experience.
Secondly, furthering your education is another route for career advancement. Pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) can open up opportunities to become a Nurse Practitioner (NP) or a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), roles that come with increased autonomy and responsibility.
Additionally, obtaining specialized certifications, such as the Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) or the Electronic Fetal Monitoring (C-EFM) certification, can demonstrate your commitment to the field and enhance your professional credibility.
Lastly, networking plays a vital role in career progression. Participating in professional organizations and conferences, such as the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN), can provide valuable connections and keep you updated on the latest developments in your field. By combining these strategies, labor and delivery nurses can achieve significant career advancement and potentially influence the future of their specialty.
Most common cases.
In terms of the benefits of being a labor and delivery nurse, the experience offers profound emotional fulfillment. Few nursing specialties provide as many opportunities for joy and satisfaction as labor and delivery. Assisting in the birth of a child and supporting a family during this monumental moment in their lives can provide a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Every birth is unique, which keeps the work interesting and engaging.
Nurses in this field are continually learning, growing their medical knowledge, and honing their technical skills. Another advantage is the opportunity for close patient interaction. Labor and delivery nurses often spend hours or even days with the same patient, allowing them to build meaningful relationships. This closeness can be rewarding and enrich the work experience.
Lastly, labor and delivery nurses often work in a strong team environment. They collaborate closely with a team of healthcare professionals, including physicians, midwives, and other nurses. This collaborative atmosphere can foster a sense of camaraderie and mutual support.
There are challenges associated with being a labor and delivery nurse. The work can be physically demanding and emotionally draining. The long hours on one's feet, night shifts, and the intense emotions that can accompany childbirth can all contribute to significant stress and fatigue.
Additionally, while childbirth is often a joyful event, it can involve complications and loss. Dealing with these challenging situations requires emotional resilience and can be very difficult. It's important for labor and delivery nurses to have strong support systems and coping mechanisms in place to handle these challenging aspects of the job.
The labor and delivery nursing specialty can be both emotionally rewarding and financially lucrative. As per the most recent data, the average annual salary for a labor and delivery nurse is $79,100. However, this figure can vary significantly depending on factors such as geographic location, level of nursing education, years of experience, and the specific healthcare facility.
Nurses in metropolitan areas or those working in larger hospitals often command higher wages up to $100,000. It's also worth noting that salaries tend to increase with advanced degrees and additional certifications in this field. Despite the challenges, the financial compensation for labor and delivery nurses is generally considered competitive compared to other nursing specialties.
National Certification Corporation (NCC)
Labor and delivery nurses work in various settings from bustling urban hospitals to smaller rural ones, each presenting a unique pace and resources. Some may opt for standalone birthing centers prioritizing a holistic childbirth approach, while others work in academia or public health, offering educational support. Experienced labor and delivery nurses may even become travel nurses, undertaking temporary assignments across the nation.
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Labor and delivery nurses play crucial roles in the birthing process, both for the infant and the mother.
Labor and delivery nurses work with a multidisciplinary team at hospitals and birthing centers to ensure the health and safety of pregnant individuals and babies. They work hard to improve patient outcomes and positively impact maternal mortality rates, which jumped from 17% in 2018 to 24% in 2020 .
You need an active registered nurse (RN) license to become a labor and delivery nurse. Although you can become a registered nurse (RN) with an associate degree in nursing (ADN), many employers prefer nurses with a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree.
Find out more about the steps to becoming a labor and delivery nurse, including education, licensure, and certification.
How Long to Become 2-4 years
Degree Required ADN or BSN
Certification Basic Life Support Certification, Advanced Cardiac Life Support Certification, Inpatient Obstetric Nursing Certification
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Labor and delivery nurses have specialized responsibilities, including monitoring fetal heart rates, identifying potential risks, and assessing labor progression. They function with compassion, strong communication, and critical thinking skills to provide comprehensive care in an environment that can quickly develop emergencies.
Their daily tasks range from assisting with cesarean sections to providing emotional support to new parents. Because each patient’s needs differ, labor and delivery nurses must provide care that is culturally appropriate and age-specific.
These nurses may work the day, evening, or night shift and are highly sought after for travel nurse positions. Regardless of time or setting, these nurses must maintain constant communication with physicians and families to ensure the best and safest care for mothers and babies.
To become a labor and delivery nurse, you must have a two- or four-year nursing degree, an active RN license, and clinical experience. Employers may also request basic life support and advanced cardiac life support certifications.
An ADN is a two-year nursing degree that is the quickest way to become a labor and delivery nurse and the minimum degree needed to practice. A BSN program takes 2-4 years, depending on the program and your prior education or work experience.
After obtaining your ADN or BSN degree, you must pass the NCLEX-RN exam. It is a computer adaptive test that most graduates take roughly 45 days after graduating from nursing school. The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) developed the test, which is the final step before obtaining a state RN license.
Nursing students typically complete clinical experiences in specialty areas such as obstetrics and labor and delivery. These clinical rotations provide a foundation where students can make connections with faculty, nurses, and others in that area.
New graduates interested in gaining clinical experience to work in a labor and delivery unit may need to begin in other hospital departments that provide a broad foundation.
Certifications validate an RN’s expertise in a specialty area, including labor and delivery. Certification can increase your job prospects, earning potential, and ability to serve in leadership positions.
The National Certification Corporation (NCC) offers several core certification examinations for nurses working in labor and delivery, including inpatient obstetric nursing, electronic fetal monitoring, maternal newborn nursing, and low-risk neonatal intensive care nursing. The American Academy of Pediatrics offers a neonatal resuscitation program as an evidence-based approach to newborn care.
Labor and delivery nurses must graduate from an accredited nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
The quickest path to becoming a labor and delivery nurse can be completed in 1-2 years; Credits can later be used to earn a BSN
BSN candidates can enter directly out of high school or after earning an ADN. A BSN degree can be completed in four years, but licensed RNs may complete the programs more quickly through an RN-to-BSN bridge program or an accelerated BSN program .
BSN-prepared nurses have a higher earning potential and more career opportunities than nurses with an ADN degree. Many employers and professional nursing organizations recommend hiring BSN-prepared nurses as there is a documented increase in survival and lower odds of patient mortality. Hospitals that have raised their ratio of BSN-prepared nurses experience a decrease in length of stay and a 32% decrease in surgical mortality, such as cesarean sections.
Each state has different requirements for nurses to maintain their RN license. Most require licensure renewal every two years and a certain number of continuing education (CE) credits
There are several certifications labor and delivery nurses can earn to improve job security and demonstrate specialized expertise. Continuing education contributes positively to the healthcare organization by improving the quality of care and demonstrating a commitment to professional growth and excellence.
A career as a labor and delivery room nurse is highly rewarding and challenging. Nurses focus on providing care during childbirth and play a critical role in ensuring the health and well-being of both mother and newborn. They must be adaptable and quick-thinking.
Nurses seeking to advance their careers may pursue advanced practice roles such as women’s health nurse practitioner or certified nurse-midwife . Nurses with advanced degrees and experience may encounter more opportunities for roles in management or education.
Labor and delivery nurses can earn a comfortable living, with the national average annual salary of about $73,000 as of June 2024, according to Payscale data.
How long does it take to become a labor and delivery nurse.
Becoming a labor and delivery nurse takes from 2-4 years. The exact timeline depends on the degree earned. Certification requires an additional two years of work experience.
A labor and delivery nurse monitors fetal and maternal health, assists during labor, vaginal birth, and cesarean sections, provides postpartum care, and supports families. They ensure safe delivery and immediate newborn care, working closely with doctors and other healthcare professionals.
Yes, being a labor and delivery nurse can be physically and professionally challenging, and emotionally difficult during times of loss. It involves long hours, emotional and physical stress, high responsibility for maternal and neonatal health, and the need to respond quickly to emergencies.
Although an ADN degree is the minimal entry-level education necessary, most employers prefer BSN-prepared nurses as their advanced education contributes to better patient outcomes and lower mortality rates.
Women of color are dying at alarming rates in childbirth and even up to a year after. Find out the challenges facing pregnant patients of color and how labor and delivery nurses can help advocate for them.
This guide covers how to become a nurse-midwife. Explore educational pathways, certification and licensing requirements, and earning potential.
Are you an RN interested in completing your undergraduate nursing education? These top RN-to-BSN programs can be completed in just 12-24 months.
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4 min read • February, 09 2024
Critical thinking in nursing helps caregivers make decisions that lead to optimal patient care. In school, educators and clinical instructors introduced you to critical-thinking examples in nursing. These educators encouraged using learning tools for assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation.
Nurturing these invaluable skills continues once you begin practicing. Critical thinking is essential to providing quality patient care and should continue to grow throughout your nursing career until it becomes second nature.
Critical thinking in nursing involves identifying a problem, determining the best solution, and implementing an effective method to resolve the issue using clinical decision-making skills.
Reflection comes next. Carefully consider whether your actions led to the right solution or if there may have been a better course of action.
Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all treatment method — you must determine what's best for each patient.
As a patient's primary contact, a nurse is typically the first to notice changes in their status. One example of critical thinking in nursing is interpreting these changes with an open mind. Make impartial decisions based on evidence rather than opinions. By applying critical-thinking skills to anticipate and understand your patients' needs, you can positively impact their quality of care and outcomes.
To assess situations and make informed decisions, nurses must integrate these specific elements into their practice:
Critical-thinking skills develop as you gain experience and advance in your career. The ability to predict and respond to nursing challenges increases as you expand your knowledge and encounter real-life patient care scenarios outside of what you learned from a textbook.
Here are five ways to nurture your critical-thinking skills:
Critical thinking in nursing is invaluable for safe, effective, patient-centered care. You can successfully navigate challenges in the ever-changing health care environment by continually developing and applying these skills.
Images sourced from Getty Images
Successful nursing requires learning several skills used to communicate with patients, families, and healthcare teams. One of the most essential skills nurses must develop is the ability to demonstrate critical thinking. If you are a nurse, perhaps you have asked if there is a way to know how to improve critical thinking in nursing? As you read this article, you will learn what critical thinking in nursing is and why it is important. You will also find 18 simple tips to improve critical thinking in nursing and sample scenarios about how to apply critical thinking in your nursing career.
4 reasons why critical thinking is so important in nursing, 1. critical thinking skills will help you anticipate and understand changes in your patient’s condition., 2. with strong critical thinking skills, you can make decisions about patient care that is most favorable for the patient and intended outcomes., 3. strong critical thinking skills in nursing can contribute to innovative improvements and professional development., 4. critical thinking skills in nursing contribute to rational decision-making, which improves patient outcomes., what are the 8 important attributes of excellent critical thinking in nursing, 1. the ability to interpret information:, 2. independent thought:, 3. impartiality:, 4. intuition:, 5. problem solving:, 6. flexibility:, 7. perseverance:, 8. integrity:, examples of poor critical thinking vs excellent critical thinking in nursing, 1. scenario: patient/caregiver interactions, poor critical thinking:, excellent critical thinking:, 2. scenario: improving patient care quality, 3. scenario: interdisciplinary collaboration, 4. scenario: precepting nursing students and other nurses, how to improve critical thinking in nursing, 1. demonstrate open-mindedness., 2. practice self-awareness., 3. avoid judgment., 4. eliminate personal biases., 5. do not be afraid to ask questions., 6. find an experienced mentor., 7. join professional nursing organizations., 8. establish a routine of self-reflection., 9. utilize the chain of command., 10. determine the significance of data and decide if it is sufficient for decision-making., 11. volunteer for leadership positions or opportunities., 12. use previous facts and experiences to help develop stronger critical thinking skills in nursing., 13. establish priorities., 14. trust your knowledge and be confident in your abilities., 15. be curious about everything., 16. practice fair-mindedness., 17. learn the value of intellectual humility., 18. never stop learning., 4 consequences of poor critical thinking in nursing, 1. the most significant risk associated with poor critical thinking in nursing is inadequate patient care., 2. failure to recognize changes in patient status:, 3. lack of effective critical thinking in nursing can impact the cost of healthcare., 4. lack of critical thinking skills in nursing can cause a breakdown in communication within the interdisciplinary team., useful resources to improve critical thinking in nursing, youtube videos, my final thoughts, frequently asked questions answered by our expert, 1. will lack of critical thinking impact my nursing career, 2. usually, how long does it take for a nurse to improve their critical thinking skills, 3. do all types of nurses require excellent critical thinking skills, 4. how can i assess my critical thinking skills in nursing.
• Ask relevant questions • Justify opinions • Address and evaluate multiple points of view • Explain assumptions and reasons related to your choice of patient care options
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Over a decade following the nationwide push to implement electronic health records (EHRs), the focus has shifted to addressing the cognitive burden associated with their use. Most research and discourse about the EHR's impact on clinicians' cognitive work has focused on physicians rather than on nursing-specific issues. Labor and delivery nurses may encounter unique challenges when using EHRs because they also interact with an electronic fetal monitoring system, continuously managing and synthesizing both maternal and fetal data. This grounded theory study explored labor and delivery nurses' perceptions of the EHR's impact on their cognitive work. Data were individual interviews and participant observations with twenty-one nurses from two labor and delivery units in the western U.S. and were analyzed using dimensional analysis. Nurses managed the tension between caring and charting using various strategies to integrate the EHR into their dynamic, high-acuity, specialty practice environment while using EHRs that were not designed for perinatal patients. Use of the EHR and associated technologies disrupted nurses' ability to locate and synthesize information, maintain an overview of the patient's status, and connect with patients and families. Individual-, group-, and environmental-level factors facilitated or constrained nurses' integration of the EHR. These findings represent critical safety failures requiring comprehensive changes to EHR designs and better processes for responding to end-user experiences. More research is needed to develop EHRs that support the dynamic and relationship-based nature of nurses' work and to align with specialty practice environments.
Keywords: cognitive work; electronic health record; labor and delivery; situation awareness.
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In a National Vital Statistics Report, the Centers for Disease Control stated that there were 3.66 million births in the United States in 2021.
Labor and delivery nurses help make the birthing experience as comfortable and safe as possible for their patients.
If you’re researching guides on specialty nursing concentrations or curious about how to become a labor and delivery nurse , read on to discover:
Labor and delivery nurses (also called delivery nurses or L&D nurses) are trained registered nurses (RNs) who specialize in helping medical professionals and mothers during childbirth. Their primary function is to assist in the labor and delivery process.
Labor and delivery nurses play a critical role in providing comprehensive healthcare by offering emotional, physical, and psychological support to patients and their families throughout childbirth—from early labor and birth to postpartum.
As the primary contact for mothers and family members, labor and delivery nurses are the go-to providers for comfort, questions, and support.
During labor and delivery, nurses are usually assigned a small number of patients per shift, ranging from one to a few.
Roles and responsibilities for labor and delivery nurses include:
Most labor and delivery nurses work in hospitals , but some may opt to assist with home births or work in birthing centers or clinical settings. Other labor and delivery nurses may also function as independent contractors, serving as consultants or community resources.
The requirements for labor and delivery nurses vary depending on the state and medical institution. Some hospitals allow L&D nurses to apply for employment immediately after completing their degrees, while other employers may require applicants to have prior experience as a registered nurse on a general medical or surgical floor.
Registered nurses specializing in labor and delivery graduate from an accredited nursing program instructing curriculum topics like lifespan development, nursing leadership, and the wellness continuum for women, newborns, and families.
Generally, prospective labor and delivery RNs enroll in a two-year nursing program , such as an associate degree in Nursing , like the one offered by Goodwin University.
Registered nursing hopefuls can also earn their four-year degree in nursing, otherwise known as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
Moreover, Accelerated BSN programs are available for prospective registered nurses who have already completed their bachelor’s degree in another major.
RN-to-BSN programs are designed to streamline the baccalaureate nursing degree process for existing registered nurses with licensures in good standing.
Likewise, bachelor-level L&D nurses seeking to advance their careers can enroll in an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) graduate program.
After becoming a nursing graduate , all alums must pass the national nursing licensure exam (the NCLEX-RN ) and their respective state boards before practicing in the field. On-the-job training in the specialty may also be administered to new hires.
L&d nursing skills: necessities for labor and delivery nurse success.
A rewarding career for registered nurses of any level, labor and delivery nurses witness medical marvels daily and assist in guiding new life into the world.
L&D nurses must also have the emotional intelligence to handle complex cases. High-risk patients include those with advanced maternal age and birth complications like premature infants or babies with low birth weight.
To flourish in a labor and delivery career, L&D registered nurses should be capable of connecting with everyone, including colleagues, doctors, patients, and families.
Furthermore, labor and delivery nurses should likely possess some of the following characteristics:
As of 2022, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the annual average wage for registered nurses nationally was $89,010.
The same year, registered nurses working in Connecticut made an annual average wage of $94,260.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor , the field of registered nursing is projected to grow six percent from 2021 to 2031, accounting for 203,200 openings each year over the decade.
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Becoming a labor and delivery nurse can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path as you care for birthing individuals during the delivery process. It requires a unique set of skills, qualities, and a genuine passion for providing exceptional care to expectant parents and their newborns.
If you’re a new nurse interested in specializing in labor and delivery, this blog post will explore the characteristics you’ll need while working in this role and provide valuable tips to support you in your career growth in the coming years.
To excel in the field of labor and delivery nursing, it's essential to possess certain qualities and characteristics which make for a great nurse , from compassion and critical thinking skills to the ability to remain calm in stressful situations. Keep reading to learn more about these qualities.
Labor and delivery can be an emotionally charged experience for individuals giving birth and those around them. To be a good labor and delivery nurse, you’ll need to demonstrate compassion and empathy and offer emotional support, which includes reassurance throughout the birthing process.
Labor and delivery can be an intense experience, and working in this hospital unit can be especially stressful during unexpected challenges in childbirth. Remaining calm is essential, so you can work with other healthcare professionals like obstetricians and midwives to make rational decisions and provide a calming presence for birthing individuals and those around them, particularly while they are stressed, anxious, or in pain—and the likelihood of this can be high during childbirth, as it’s one of the most important and intense life events someone can experience.
Labor and delivery nurses must have fast thinking skills and the ability to make informed decisions under stressful conditions. Childbirth is an incredible and miraculous experience, but it can also be devastating when it doesn’t go according to plan. Nurses can experience trauma and grief as they cope with losing a patient to maternal mortality or infant mortality. In the hours and moments during these challenging incidences, nurses need to be able to think critically to provide the best care possible to patients, anticipate potential complications, and respond appropriately in difficult situations.
Effective communication is crucial as a labor and delivery nurse—particularly because you’ll be working with a team of other health professionals during the delivery process and will also need to communicate with the birthing individual and their family members or anyone else who is present during the birth. Labor and delivery nurses should be able to communicate compassionately to ensure that the birthing individual is knowledgeable about the process and feels supported throughout.
As a new labor and delivery nurse, it’s important to take the initiative to pursue personal and professional development opportunities so you can strengthen your skills, develop the essential characteristics of a good labor and delivery nurse, and continue to grow in this role. Follow the below tips to build up your confidence as a new labor and delivery nurse.
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Labor and delivery is one of the most sought-after jobs in nursing. It requires a specific skill set plus compassion, dedication, and knowledge. If you are a nurse who is just starting out or is curious about transitioning into the world of labor and delivery nursing, there are a few essential things to consider before starting your career. From how to start your career as a labor and delivery nurse, the demands and rewards of the job, to the profit you can expect to make, we will discuss vital information to help you make an educated decision for your nursing career.
To become a labor and delivery nurse, you must first meet some qualifications. Nurses must graduate from an accredited nursing school, earn an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor in Science of Nursing (BSN), and pass the NCLEX licensing exam. Many nurses recommend that new graduate nurses start their careers in a medical-surgical unit to gain confidence and nursing skills. However, that shouldn’t deter nurses from applying to a labor and delivery unit if they are new graduates. If the nurse is the right candidate for the job, many hospitals will hire them and have them complete a training course or program of their choice.
Certification in Obstetric Nursing is another option for labor and delivery nurses to advance their careers. The National Certification Corporation (NCC) offers the Inpatient Obstetric Nursing (RNC-OB) certification. The RNC-OB works well for registered nurses (RNs) with two years of professional experience and a specialization in obstetric, gynecologic, or neonatal nursing. Nurses who earn this certification can move up the ladder to a management position and increase their salaries.
Labor and delivery nurses typically have a more extensive orientation to their unit than, for example, a medical-surgical nurse. During these orientations, nurses undergo intense training and education specialized in the labor and delivery unit. Many hospitals even offer their new nurses a fellowship or nurse residency program. The fellowship or residency programs often last a few months to a year. Nurse residency programs allow nurses to gain confidence and use their critical thinking in real-life, hands-on nursing situations under the supervision of an experienced preceptor. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nurses (AACN), there are multiple benefits associated with new nurse residency programs , which include the following:
With almost a million nurses coming into retirement by the year 2030, the nursing shortage is here to stay. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing states that according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections 2021-2031 , the RN workforce will likely grow by 6% over the next decade. Statistics suggest the RN workforce will increase from 3.1 million in 2021 to 3.3 million in 2031, a growth of 195,400 nurses. Accordingly, nurses who want to specialize in labor and delivery have an excellent opportunity to land the career of their dreams.
In addition to the aging workforce and nursing shortage , the number of births in the country will continue to grow, providing labor and delivery nurses with job security. In 2022, the number of babies born in the United States was over 3.7 million, according to UNICEF. With the birth rate steadily increasing each year, the need for nurses working in maternal/newborn units will also continue to rise.
Nurses who want to specialize in labor and delivery have a few options regarding their place of work. Some of the areas where a labor and delivery nurse can work include the following settings:
Labor and delivery nurses often earn a higher income than the average registered nurse working in another area of a hospital or clinic. Health eCareers states the average salary for a registered nurse is around $73,000. In contrast, the average salary for a labor and delivery nurse is nearly $80,000. National hourly wages vary by state, but on average, a new graduate nurse with less than a year of experience can expect to earn around $29. Nurses with five years of experience average $32, and nurses with over ten years of experience can earn upwards of $40 an hour, making labor and delivery a very lucrative area of nursing.
Labor and delivery nursing can be a physically demanding job. You must be able to help patients reposition, assist them to the bathroom, and be quick on your feet. Nurses who work in a labor and delivery setting often work 12-hour shifts.
Although the job is physically and mentally challenging, working in a labor and delivery unit has many rewards. Many nurses love that they share such an exciting and personal experience with their patients. Helping patients during childbirth is one of the most thrilling and joyful experiences that labor and delivery nurses get to be a part of. Some other tasks that labor and delivery nurses encounter during a shift include monitoring the fetal heart rate and contractions, administering medications, and reporting to obstetricians. Another rewarding aspect of labor and delivery nursing is education. Many nurses love teaching patients and their families about different options for childbirth, newborn care, and breastfeeding. These reasons help draw nurses to the labor and delivery field.
To become a great labor and delivery nurse, you must have specific characteristics and attributes. Nurses must be empathetic and genuinely show that they care about the patients they serve. They must also think on their feet and communicate efficiently with patients and providers, especially when there are complications. Labor and delivery nurses should be excellent at critical thinking to make the best decisions regarding patient care. Another attribute that labor and delivery nurses should strive to have is cultural sensitivity. Labor and delivery nurses care for patients of all races and ethnicities. Each ethnic group has its own cultural views and rules on birth, and nurses must be sensitive to those views.
Being a labor and delivery nurse can be a wonderful career with opportunities for advancement, a higher salary, and rewarding work. Nurses will work with many different specialties and departments within the hospital. From Anesthesia to Radiology, ER to Reception, admissions, and countless other healthcare team members, labor and delivery nurses will need to communicate and collaborate to ensure they are delivering the best care possible to the mothers and families they serve. With the current trend of the nursing shortage, now is a great time to enter the labor and delivery nursing field.
Shelby Allan, RN, BSN is a nurse, a mother to four young kids, and a wife to a busy farmer/cattle rancher. She and her husband live on a farm in Central Nebraska. Shelby is passionate about educating women and mothers with evidence-based research so they may make the best decision for themselves and their families.
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Labor & Delivery Nurse’s Job Description
Labor and delivery nurses are nurses that assist women during the process of childbirth. Labor and delivery nurses are very similar to perinatal nurses, only they just assist during labor verses seeing the woman during the entire pregnancy like perinatal nurses do. During a woman’s labor, the labor and delivery nurse monitors the fetal heart rate in order to determine if the baby is handling labor well. The nurse also monitors the woman’s blood pressure, temperature, strength and timing of contractions, and cervical dilation. The nurse can assist the woman in finding ways to help labor progress more quickly and comfortably. During the actual delivery, the labor and delivery nurse can help coach the woman with breathing exercises and pushing.
What does an L&D Nurse Do? If complications arise during labor, the nurse alerts the attending physicians so that further interventions can occur, such as a caesarian delivery. The nurse also assists the physicians when epidurals or pain medications are administered, episiotomies are performed, or when the woman requires preparation for a caesarian delivery. The labor and delivery nurse must also be comfortable with starting IVs in order to administer fluids and the labor-stimulating drug Pitocin.
A labor and delivery nurse must possess excellent critical thinking skills and an ability to make decisions quickly using good professional judgment. Each woman who is admitted to the labor and delivery unit has at least one baby who also becomes the patient of the nurse. The nurse must be able to recognize complications and act quickly in order to stabilize the situation and communicate with the patient, the patient’s family, and the appropriate physicians and specialists in order to ensure a safe and healthy delivery.
Skills & Education In order to become a labor and delivery nurse, one must have earned an Associate of Science in Nursing or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree through an accredited college or university. Students can take elective courses in labor and delivery in order to better be prepared for a future career as a labor and delivery nurse. Following graduation, the student must successfully pass the National Council Licensure Examination, or NCLEX. Board certification can be obtained following clinical experience as a staff nurse and working in the labor and delivery unit.
Job Outlook While the job outlook for nurses in many areas of practice is positive, it is estimated that positions as a labor and delivery nurse may be harder to obtain over the next decade. This is in part due to the fact that labor and delivery is a popular area of nursing with many registered nurses choosing to specialize in that area. It is also an area of nursing with a lower turnover rate than is found in other nursing specialties.
Salary The average yearly salary for a nurse specializing in labor and delivery is approximately $55,000 a year. A labor and delivery nurse who has several years of experience can expect to make closer to $70,000 or more. Those nurses with a master’s degree or higher can also make a significantly higher annual salary. The annual pay level for a labor and delivery nurse is often higher in metropolitan areas verses rural areas. The average salary is also dependent on the area of the country one practices in.
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Nursing process: A critical thinking model used by nurses in providing care to health care consumers that ... and dignity of the recipient; is free from harm or mistreatment; and supports informed choices during labor and birth (Bohren et al., 2020. ... The registered nurse coordinates care delivery within their scope of practice. ...
We focused on three critical labor and delivery nursing activities: timely recognition of and response to indeterminate or abnormal fetal heart rate changes, excessive uterine activity, and new maternal complications. ... In a survey of 757 labor and delivery nurses conducted in the summer of 2020, ...
Within a sample of labor and delivery nurses, physicians, and allied personnel, we used self-report measures to examine the impact of trait factors, including NA, decision-making style, and perceived time stress, on decision quality in a situational judgment test (Study 1). ... Understanding and enhancing critical thinking in recognition-based ...
Patient‐centered care recognizes that each woman brings unique knowledge regarding herself and her body to pregnancy, labor, birth, and mothering. Shared decision making, a process by which a woman and her care team interact as partners to make decisions that are fully informed, based on the best available evidence, consistent with personal ...
Critical thinking in nursing is an essential component of professional accountability and quality nursing care. ... ' outcomes. 81-83 Research-based guidelines are intended to provide guidance for specific areas of health care delivery. 84 The clinician—both the novice and expert—is expected to use the best available evidence for the ...
Labor and delivery nurse skills are the knowledge, traits and abilities these health care professionals use to work in a labor and delivery unit. Labor and delivery nurses use their medical knowledge and clinical training to provide care to mothers and their newborn babies. ... This requires critical thinking and emergency responsiveness, along ...
When nursing subjects deal with labor pains and childbirth, it is difficult to predict the nature of delivery, and emergency situations frequently arise. ... critical thinking in nursing students was closely correlated with nursing competency ... In maternity nursing, where the delivery process and outcome are difficult to predict and emergency ...
Critical thinking and problem-solving: Given the unpredictability of childbirth, labor and delivery nurses need to think on their feet and make swift decisions. They need to quickly assess situations, analyze patient data, and identify any potential complications. ... Labor and delivery nurses work in various settings from bustling urban ...
Labor and delivery nurses have specialized responsibilities, including monitoring fetal heart rates, identifying potential risks, and assessing labor progression. They function with compassion, strong communication, and critical thinking skills to provide comprehensive care in an environment that can quickly develop emergencies.
related to safe labor and birth that nurses can help the nation achieve. 9. Identify areas related to labor and birth that could benefit from additional nursing research or application of evidence-based practice. 10. Use critical thinking to analyze the effectiveness of nursing care measures to meet the needs of women and their families so ...
Critical Thinking Task in Maternity Nursing(CT2MN): A maternity nursing case study and 8 follow-up questions that align with the study definition of critical thinking. A.W., an 18 y. o. G2P0010, came to labor and delivery with her boyfriend with a complaint of spontaneous onset of contractions beginning at 1 am. It is now 6 am. She goes to the
for clinical experiences that enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills for competent care (IOM, 2011). The purpose of this study was to formatively evaluate stu-dent nurses' transfer of labor and delivery knowledge and clinical judgment to a simulated clinical environment. The specific aims of this pilot study were to:
Critical thinking in nursing is invaluable for safe, effective, patient-centered care. You can successfully navigate challenges in the ever-changing health care environment by continually developing and applying these skills. Images sourced from Getty Images. Critical thinking in nursing is essential to providing high-quality patient care.
The following are examples of attributes of excellent critical thinking skills in nursing. 1. The ability to interpret information: In nursing, the interpretation of patient data is an essential part of critical thinking. Nurses must determine the significance of vital signs, lab values, and data associated with physical assessment.
Simpson-Cosimano, A. (2010). The experience of new nursing graduates on labor and delivery units: A phenomenological approach. College of Saint Mary). ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, 106. ... and critical thinking. It is important for nurse educators to continue to integrate instructional design strategies that facilitate immersive presence ...
To examine the effects of high-fidelity simulation of labor and delivery on nursing students' knowledge, critical thinking, and clinical performance: Randomized controlled study: 72 third-year nursing students (E group 36, C group 36) 2 times: S: Nursing knowledge (Delivery care) Critical thinking Clinical performance: Raman et al. (2011) /Oman
Labor and delivery nurses may encounter unique challenges when using EHRs because they also interact with an electronic fetal monitoring system, continuously managing and synthesizing both maternal and fetal data. This grounded theory study explored labor and delivery nurses' perceptions of the EHR's impact on their cognitive work.
Generally, prospective labor and delivery RNs enroll in a two-year nursing program, such as an associate degree in Nursing, like the one offered by Goodwin University. Registered nursing hopefuls can also earn their four-year degree in nursing, otherwise known as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Moreover, Accelerated BSN programs are ...
The labor and delivery unit's Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) scores for nurse communication point to the model's effectiveness: The score for "nurses listen carefully to you" rose 10.56% in the first quarter of 2023 to 90.48%. Plan-of-care huddles
3. Critical Thinking Skills. Labor and delivery nurses must have fast thinking skills and the ability to make informed decisions under stressful conditions. Childbirth is an incredible and miraculous experience, but it can also be devastating when it doesn't go according to plan.
Nurse residency programs allow nurses to gain confidence and use their critical thinking in real-life, hands-on nursing situations under the supervision of an experienced preceptor. ... Labor and delivery nurses often earn a higher income than the average registered nurse working in another area of a hospital or clinic.
A labor and delivery nurse must possess excellent critical thinking skills and an ability to make decisions quickly using good professional judgment. Each woman who is admitted to the labor and delivery unit has at least one baby who also becomes the patient of the nurse. The nurse must be able to recognize complications and act quickly in ...
Cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Labor and delivery scenarios can change rapidly, so critical thinking and problem-solving helps ensure safe and effective care. Stay up to date with continuing education. Healthcare is constantly evolving, especially in labor and delivery, so stay current with the latest practices with ...
Method: Within a sample of labor and delivery nurses, physicians, and allied personnel, we used self-report mea-sures to examine the impact of trait factors, including NA, decision-making style, and perceived time stress, on decision quality in a situational judgment test (Study 1). In Study 2, we observed the influence of state NA, state
In today's health care environment, simulation is a viable teaching strategy used to provide the nursing profession with opportunities for clinical experiences that enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills for competent care (IOM, 2011). The purpose of this study was to formatively evaluate student nurses' transfer of labor and ...
Labor and delivery nurses with an ADN may receive lower pay and may not have their first choice of positions compared to a labor and delivery nurse with a BSN. ... the BSN curriculum covers the basics of nursing care and how the body works, but also teaches more specialized critical thinking skills. Time to Complete. 4 years. Minimum GPA. 3.0 ...