[nunley]

I love this website. This is my first post.

I'm 19 years old. finishing my 3rd quarter of a 2 year RN program.
one of 4 men, in a class of about 60 students. And I'm the youngest.

I work part-time at a carry-out grocery store about 12 hrs a week.

Some people tell me I need more hospital experience besides clinicals, other people tell me I don't need a job b/c they were trained on the job after graduating.

Do I need more experience than just school clinicals?
if so, how did your hospital schedule fit around your class time?

thanks,
Matt

[Pachinko]

Welcome!

The hospital where you get your first job will (or should) provide on-the-job training. When interviewing for positions, ask what kind of program is in place for new grad training. Most hospitals will at least give you some time shadowing and working with another, more experienced nurse (preceptorship). Many hospitals also have classes for you to attend.

If you wanted to get a hospital job providing bedside care, you will need some kind of certification. Care partners (or nurse's aides, whatever you prefer) are certified by the state. You may be able to get a job as a secretary, stocker, etc., but you won't learn much that will help you in nursing.

My advice: concentrate on school and don't worry about working at a hospital right now.

[Leaninstreet]

On the job experience helps the transition but it is also stuff that you will learn quickly even if you don't have experience. I have been CNA while in school and it has helped me a lot with my practicum, just made me more comfortable providing patient care. But it is definitely not a requirement.