How can I get hospital experience as an RN?

[limetree1987]

I'm hoping others can offer me some advice or help. I received my bachelor's degree in nursing in 2010 and at that time it was close to impossible to find a job in a hospital. As a result, I worked in an office setting up until now. I have networked and applied to almost every hospital in Massachusetts with no luck. Every job posting states "Prior experience in a hospital setting required." I have personally gone to the HR departments at the hospitals and still with no luck. I have also tried applying to all other areas of nursing such as home care, primary care, nursing homes, etc. The companies that do reply say I should check back once I have had hospital experience. I have had my resume critiqued and it is up to par as far as I know. I am certified in Basic Life Support for the Professional Healthcare Provider from the American Red Cross and I have an active RN license. I have three years of experience, I am not a new grad, and I have excellent references. I graduated at the top of my nursing class and was inducted into Sigma Theta Tau, The International Honor Society of Nursing. I am totally discouraged and feel as though I should go back to school for something else but should I rack up more debt in school loans? Advice please!!!

[GM2RN]

Take a PRN job. Hospitals are often more willing to hire someone with your type of background on a PRN basis, and it would be that "foot in the door" that you need to get the job you really want. After you get one job, apply to a different hospital for a second or even third PRN position to increase your chances of getting enough hours and a FT job.

[limetree1987]

To be fair, you asked what you could do and Tmari1 gave you sound advice. The jobs in Massachusetts just aren't there. Have you considered looking in Southern NH?

yes, i agree, it was valid advice, I guess I am just frustrated. Yes, I have recently started looking in Southern NH and keeping my fingers crossed!

[limetree1987]

Take a PRN job. Hospitals are often more willing to hire someone with your type of background on a PRN basis, and it would be that "foot in the door" that you need to get the job you really want. After you get one job, apply to a different hospital for a second or even third PRN position to increase your chances of getting enough hours and a FT job.

That is a good idea, I was thinking the same thing. I have been applying to all types of positions, including per diem and temporary but still no luck. We will see.

[limetree1987]

If you was living in a state that had a military base, you could've worked on post at the hospital. As of right now the Army is looking for graduate nurses, you should go check it out. Inbox me if you need any information about that.

Unfortunately I can't use the messaging feature as I do not have enough topics yet, but I would love more information. I'm wondering if you could message me? Thanks

[sbostonRN]

Definitely consider LTAC. There are several in eastern Mass and they love new grads. It's a very difficult setting but you gain a ton of experience. I worked at one for a year and a half and just landed my dream position at an acute care hospital (and I have an ADN!).