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What Does an Obstetrics/Gynecology Nurse Do?

Obstetrics/gynecology nurses are women's health professionals who focus on issues surrounding reproductive health. While some of their work revolves around delivery and pre-natal care, obstetrics/gynecology nurses spend a majority of their time treating patients who are not pregnant, teaching them about health issues like hysterectomies, preventative yearly screenings, and menstruation.

Obstetrics/gynecology nurses are generally employed by hospitals or private practices. They work under the direction of physicians, preparing exam rooms, supporting women in labor, assisting with surgeries, and handling patient issues.

Education & Training Required to Become an Obstetrics/Gynecology Nurse

Most obstetrics/gynecology nurses are registered nurses (RNs) with an associate's or bachelor's degree in nursing. You can also earn a master's degree in nursing (MSN) and specialize in obstetrics/gynecology, which allows you greater autonomy in treating patients.

Once you've completed a degree program, continuing education in obstetrics/gynecology nursing is required to stay certified. Online programs can help you meet your continuing education requirements, and nurses looking to advance their career may also consider completing an online MSN degree program in nursing.

Typical Characteristics of an Obstetrics/Gynecology Nurse

Obstetrics/gynecology nurses need to be able to work with a variety of people because the age range of OB/GYN patients is broad. In obstetrics in particular, nurses can face high-pressure environments involving life-and-death situations. They need to think on their feet and work in a team with different on-duty obstetricians, neo-natal specialists, and pediatricians as necessary.

While the work can be demanding, obstetrics/gynceology nurses also get to enjoy helping families grow and seeing healthy babies born.

High Demand for Obstetrics/Gynecology Nurses

People will always have babies, and women will always need advanced health care. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nursing is one of the fastest-growing health care occupations, with a median annual wage of over $62,000 in 2008. In fact, there is a national shortage of nurses, so job opportunities for nurses are expected to be excellent in coming years. If obstetrics/gynecology nursing is for you, there's never been a better time to get started.