[whitk87]

Hi! I'm an RN (associate's level) student getting ready to graduate. I'm really interested in moving to and working in the Kansas City area, mostly for the experience and because the hospital in my hometown is notorious for its bad treatment of nurses.

I'm wondering if you guys could help me narrow down on good hospitals to check out. I'd really like to work in trauma and pediatrics (I plan on moving overseas to work in humanitarian aid after I get my BSN, which I hope to get in two years online with Fort Hays State U while working as an RN) before moving overseas. I do realize I'll probably need some med/surg experience before moving onto specialties.

So what hospitals are the best in pediatrics and trauma/emergency med? Also, are there any hospitals that offer good tuition assistance, medical/dental/life insurance, and starting wages for nurses?

I really appreciate your help and input on this.

whitney

[Daytonite]

The Univeristy of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, KS is probably where you want to start.

You would have to have a Missouri license for these two places on the Missouri side of Kansas City.
Truman Medical Center (they are Level 1 trauma) - they also are very accomodating to new grad nurses
Research Medical Center

I lived and worked in KC. Quite a few nurses hold licenses for both states so they can do agency work. Favorite Nurses is headquartered in KC on the Kansas side. Most of the big hospitals are on the Missouri side except for UKMC.

[KnarfKS]

I agree with Daytonite on ku med, truman and research. I also did clinicals at North Kansas City hospital and really liked it. Very good for cardiology.

But if you are wanting strictly peds and don't mind slightly less pay, then Children's mercy is definately the way to go.

I actually plan on going to ku med or truman because of the experience. But KU med has an advantage, they will pay for your BSN.

[geekgolightly]

just FYI, Research is an HCA hospital.

I like working at St. Luke's. The Neuroscience unit staffs 5:1 for days.