- Nursing
- Nursing specialties
- Perinatal nurse
Perinatal nurse
A perinatal nurse cares for women through preconception, pregnancy, and the weeks following the birth of their baby.
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Required education
ADN or BSN
Varied
Take on different tasks, patients, and situations every day.
Patient-facing
Work hands-on, directly with patients.
Structured
Follow a routine that allows you to anticipate and prepare for every situation.
What is the role of a perinatal nurse?
You’ll assist your patients during labor and be there to help if any complications arise.
What you’ll do as a perinatal nurse
Collaboration
You’ll work with nurse midwives and doctors during labor.
Treatment
You’ll perform routine tests and look after your patients throughout pregnancy, and for the first few weeks after the birth.
Education
You’ll teach women and men about prenatal health, what to expect during pregnancy, childbirth options, postpartum issues, and how to care for and bond with their new baby.
Where you’ll work as a perinatal nurse
Perinatal nurses work in a variety of settings, including:
- Community health organizations
- Doctors’ offices
- Home Health Services
- Hospitals
- Medical evacuation and transport
- Neonatal intensive care units
- Long term care centers
How to become a perinatal nurse
Get an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
When considering a future nursing career, it’s important to explore the different nursing programs available and the paths they offer. With various options like associate degree programs, bachelor’s degree programs, and direct-entry master’s degree programs, prospective students can choose the educational path that best suits their goals and interests.
Pass the NCLEX-RN and work as a Registered Nurse.
The National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) is the all-important step between graduating from nursing school and becoming a nurse. It’s a standardized test, set by the Board of Nursing in each state, that makes sure you have the knowledge and skills you need to work in the field of nursing.
You can get certified by the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal nurses.
Many employers require Perinatal Nurses to earn nurse practitioner or clinical nurse specialist credentials.
You’re ready to work as a perinatal nurse!
Perinatal nurse career resources
Become a member of a perinatal nurse organization to find career opportunities, learn from your colleagues, and support the profession.
Related specialties
Neonatal intensive care nurse
A plastic surgery nurse’s role is also structured.
Pediatric nurse practitioner
A pediatric nurse practitioner is another type of family nurse.