Job Description:

Magnet Medical is seeking a travel nurse RN Labor and Delivery Med Surg for a travel nursing job in Memphis, Missouri.

Specialty and Requirements

• SPECILITY: Labor and Delivery
• DISCIPLINE: RN

Key Responsibilities:

Pre-Labor and Admission Assessment:

The Registered Nurse (RN) in Labor and Delivery (L&D) assesses and monitors the health of pregnant women at various stages of labor. This includes gathering health histories, vital signs, and physical assessments. The RN also performs non-stress tests (NSTs), monitors fetal heart tones, and evaluates uterine activity for signs of labor progression.

Labor Support and Monitoring:

The RN monitors the progress of labor through regular assessment of contraction patterns, cervical dilation, fetal heart rate, and maternal vital signs. They administer medications, including epidurals, Pitocin, and pain relief options, as prescribed, and monitor their effects. The RN provides continuous emotional support and pain management throughout the labor process, using comfort measures such as positioning, breathing techniques, and offering encouragement.

Assisting with Delivery:

The RN assists obstetricians or midwives during vaginal deliveries, including providing instrumentation assistance, suctioning, and other necessary actions during the birth. They participate in cesarean section procedures by ensuring the sterile field, assisting with the delivery process, and providing immediate newborn care after birth.

Postpartum Care:

The RN monitors the health and recovery of both the mother and the newborn in the immediate postpartum period, including assessing vital signs, bleeding, and uterine tone. They assist with breastfeeding support, including teaching proper latch techniques, positioning, and addressing any concerns related to infant care. The RN also provides education on postpartum recovery, self-care, and newborn care, such as diapering, bathing, and recognizing signs of illness.

Documentation and Reporting:

The RN documents all assessments, interventions, medications, and patient progress accurately in the electronic health record (EHR) to maintain compliance with hospital policies and legal standards. They maintain accurate and timely records of labor and delivery processes, including patient and fetal monitoring results.

Collaboration and Communication:

The RN works closely with obstetricians, anesthesiologists, neonatologists, and other healthcare team members to plan and implement individualized care for each patient. They communicate clearly with patients and families about the progress of labor, potential complications, and available options, ensuring that informed consent is obtained for procedures when necessary.

Infection Control and Safety:

The RN follows infection control procedures to maintain a safe and sterile environment for labor, delivery, and postpartum care. They ensure that all equipment used during labor and delivery is properly sterilized and functioning, including fetal monitoring devices, IV pumps, and delivery instruments.

Emergency and High-Risk Situations:

The RN recognizes signs of complications, such as fetal distress, preeclampsia, and hemorrhage, and initiates appropriate interventions or escalates care as needed. They respond to obstetric emergencies, such as shoulder dystocia, uterine rupture, and neonatal resuscitation, utilizing appropriate protocols and teamwork. The RN administers medications and interventions for high-risk pregnancies, including managing complications like hypertension, gestational diabetes, or infections.

Patient Education and Advocacy:

The RN provides education and support to patients and families regarding labor, delivery options, newborn care, and postpartum recovery. They advocate for patient preferences and informed decision-making, ensuring that patients have access to the resources they need to make choices about their care.