Inpatient Obstetric Nurse (NCC) Practice Exam - Study Guide & Practice Questions

The primary role of an Inpatient Obstetric Nurse is to provide comprehensive care to pregnant patients. This encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including monitoring the health and progress of both mother and fetus during labor and delivery, educating patients about their pregnancy and childbirth options, and facilitating communication between the patient and the healthcare team. The nurse's role is centered on ensuring a safe and positive experience throughout the childbirth process, addressing both physical and emotional needs, and advocating for the patient’s choices.

The other roles mentioned involve specialized skills not primarily within the scope of an obstetric nurse's duties. Administering anesthesia is typically performed by anesthetists or anesthesiologists. Performing surgical operations generally falls under the purview of surgeons or obstetricians, rather than nurses. Conducting psychological assessments might not be a core function unless the nurse is specially trained in mental health, which is not typically a primary role of an inpatient obstetric nurse. Therefore, the comprehensive care aspect is what truly defines the nurse's primary responsibility in the inpatient obstetric setting.