Is it worth it to take an LVN job in CA prisons when you are a new grad RN

U.S.A. California

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I am a new grad B.S. RN. I am a male African American, 38, 6'3" 225lbs. I want to work in the prison system as an RN and I've already taken the test and recieved some employment inquiries. I've even had an interview with a particular institution that went really well. Unfortunately, I only had my interim permit at the time so they couldn't hire me. I now have my RN license and have employment inquiries pending with a couple of prisons closer to Oakland where I live. The thing is I had a really good feeling about the nurses how interviewed me and was thinking about interviewing for an LVN position. Of course I would rather start as an RN but I don't know how long it will take for to get an interview. The interview for the LVN position is next monday 9/21.

I was wondering if any CA Prison nurses could give me some advice about starting as a full time LVN when I already have a B.S.N. in the hopes of transfering to another institution when a full time RN position becomes available.

Thanks

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

I would pursue an RN position with the prison system, especially if you are dealing with the California Department of Corrections. While you could theoretically accept an LVN position, you will still be held to the higher level of licensure (RN) if something were to go terribly wrong.

In addition, there's a significant pay difference between the two designations in the prison system. $9200 monthly for the RN is a far cry from the LVN salary you'll be offered. Good luck with your decision making.

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Specializes in Surgical Acute Unit (Bariatrics & Ortho).

In this market though, take what you can get. If they are willing to take you on as an LVN, you at least have a job to start paying off your BSN. As a fellow new grad who is also having a hard time finding a job, I'm of the mindset that if you can wait out the market with ANY job you are better off.

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As a state employee, get your time in! An LVN with Corrections probably pays more than the outside/better benefits while getting in service time. More service time, better retirement, less chance of layoffs if they occur. Build your reputation so if an RN opening comes up, you have references within Corrections.

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I wouldn't take it if I were you.

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As a former government employee i say get your foot in the door whereever it will fit! Once your inside the door then move around. I left my government job for personal reason but still have reinstatement privaledges. Get in as a secretary if you have to but get in!

I know some who got a low level job at the dump! He is now making 60 thou in a cushy job running some department at recreations. If he had applied straight to a job like that he would have NEVER gotten it. But be aware, for most government jobs they ALREADY know who they are going to hire they just advertise the job because they are mandated too. Jobs that lots of people dont really want like at the DUMP or as a prison nurse are the ones that are more likely to NOT have someone already picked out for the job. I was federal but have been thinking of trying to get in with the local very low paying state nursing home here just to get my foot in the door. I have met lots of people that started out there and now have great jobs

Good luck

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Do not do it. Unless you do not care about your nursing skills stay away from corrections. Nursing in CDCR is dangerous, if the "clients" arent trying to set you up management is. CDCR is and has been under the "microscope" by everyone from the courts to the media and all of them are looking for someone to blame for the mess that the department is in. After more then 15 years in this department I say do not do it. Thats my opinion...

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