The state of perinatal nursing: current and future profiles as described by perinatal nursing service directors

The health care industry is in the throes of remarkably penetrating and destabilizing change, the effects of which have been felt earliest by perinatal service directors. In anticipation of future trends marked by rampant change, a survey of perinatal service directors and vice presidents was conducted to elicit their opinions about the current and future states of perinatal health care. Findings supported the notions that change is a constant, that clinical and service excellence is a mandate, and that collaboration is key. Future success will require many old behaviors and systems to be replaced. Leadership to guide us to the future has never been more important.