SummaryAn exploratory study was made to determine the contribution of the maternity nurse specialist in the hospital clinic setting. An observation tool was designed based upon a classification of health needs and of components of care and providing for the recording of 1) health needs observed and “action suggested” by the specialized maternity nurse, and 2) of health needs identified and “actions taken” by health team members. Observations were made before and after a demonstration period during which formal and informal classes were provided for the hospital and clinical personnel and demonstrations of patient care were provided in the clinic. Findings suggested that physical care needs were more often identified by the health team members than were emotional care needs; the maternity nurse identified more health needs, including the need for emotional care and counseling, and suggested a wider variety of actions than did other members of the health team. It is suggested that the maternity nurse specialist can make a unique contribution as a consultant and a member of the health team in the hospital clinic setting.