Will agencies hire new grad if I worked for them as a CNA?

romie · Mar 27, 2011

While I commend the loyalty of an agency that would hire you for RN agency work after months of CNA agency experience with them, I would question the reputation and quality if they were to allow a brand spanking new RN to represent them in a hospital. It really does take a lot of time to transition from the student nurse role to the RN role, especially when it comes to time management and applying your critical thinking skills. In addition, the sheer number of units and hospitals that one would juggle between would make it difficult to establish good habits.

New grads need a consistent schedule with consistent preceptors and meaningful feedback and support. Providing this can be financially and time intensive for employers, who tend to hire agency nurses to absolve themselves of this type of liability and burden to begin with. (This is not, of course, the only reason that agency is utilized).

caliotter3 · Mar 27, 2011

I was told by one of my agency employers that I would need to get a year of RN experience elsewhere before I could work for them as an RN. Other agencies simply move you into the new position and give you the pay raise.

Devie06 · Mar 27, 2011

Thanks for the input. I find it very frustrating to even think about becoming a new grad, how am I to find a job? Hospitals wont hire, agencies wont hire?

Chin up · Mar 27, 2011

I did the LPN to agency, 25 years ago. I would not recommend it to anyone. I was too young to realize how foolish it was. It worked out for me, but now I shudder whenever I think about it. I only got hired because my friend owned the business. Otherwise they want one year experience and for very good reason. Peace!

Don't worry, the job situation will improve again. It always does.

buenavidaRN · Apr 12, 2011

I know it is frustrating as a new grad to try to find work. I was told by one HR, 'good luck, there are about 100 applicants per 1 new grad job.' That was more than 3 years ago and I have heard it has only gotten worse (in that state).

I was able to get a new grad job there and have since worked agencies and as a travel nurse. The more you learn the more you realize how necessary a solid preceptorship is. You will only be hurting yourself if you 1)found an agency that would hire a new RN and 2)worked as an agency nurse with no nursing experience. Your CNA experience is an advantage because you are used to the hospital setting, etc., but it is very different to work as a RN. Remember it is your license, don't jeopardize it! Stick with it and find a new grad job. Good luck!