Healthcare crisis: Will I find a job after graduation?

[longtimecoming]

I live in Spokane, WA where there are 2 schools of nursing pumping out approximately 100 ADN and 50 BSN nurses every year. The community has a population of about 500,000 and 4 hospitals (2 have Level II trauma units). Recently, the two large hospitals have experienced huge layoffs due to budget problems which they attribute to poor reimbursement by HMOs and the uninsured. I will graduate in December but there is currently a city-wide hiring freeze, as well as about 100 experienced nurses who just lost their jobs to lay-offs.

Now I am panicking!! When I went into nursing school, the nursing shortage was plastered all over the news and it seemed like a great opportunity for growth and unlimited variety of experiences for the rest of my career. Now what? In the past I had planned on going on to Nurse Anesthetist, but because of the stress just this ADN degree has put on my family (young kids) I wanted to wait a few years before continuing my education. Now, I almost feel that if I don't keep going, I might be out of a job. Are these problems happening everywhere? Reimbursement has to be universal, not just limited to Spokane, but why is Seattle paying hire-on bonuses? There MUST still be a need!! Just not in Spokane. :angryfire

I am curious if any of you are hearing lay-off rumors in the areas you live, or if Spokane Nurses are just at the mercy of too much supply and not enough demand? I am considering applying at some of the rural hospitals, which are still desperate, but might not be a good place to get experience. Any thoughts?

[hobbes]

I'm sure that what you are experiencing is a local phenomena. Here in Atlanta, there still is stiff demand for nurses.

[Blackcat99]

In the tri-cities area (eastern WA) they are offering $1,000 sign on bonuses for nurses in LTC,assisted living and the Red Cross. Most of these jobs are located in Richland. It seems the LTC especially in Richland is always looking for nurses.

[Paleobug]

I agree that your problem is probably local. If it continues, I would consider relocating after you graduate.

[meandragonbrett]

If you have trouble finding a job, move to a different city and I'm sure you'll have no troubles finding a position that suits you.

[sabrn2006]

I worried a bit about having something similar happen. This year my nursing school increased its freshman class by 50% due to perceived demand. Keep in mind, that there are always fluctuations in hiring trends. The nursing shortage is here to stay though. Consider applying to the rural hospitals. Your experience in one of them would make you more marketable later when the urban hospitals start hiring again. (and they will)

[agent]

I agree that your problem is probably local. If it continues, I would consider relocating after you graduate.

Ha! I used to live in spokane.. not too big of a city.

Come move to Chicago like me

[JenNJFLCA]

No shortage here in Tampa, or anywhere else in FL for that reason. We have lots of people moving down here every day!

[tdg_rn]

I'm in a much smaller city with one major hospital. There is definitely a shortage here. They always have openings and, even now, can't wait for us to get out of school.

I think you are just experiencing a local phenom.

Terence

[chris_at_lucas_RN, RN]

In a way, I'm surprised the school continues to get funding. Obviously, there is not a lot of local need for nurses....

Kinda weird, given the world situation.

Come to Dallas! We've got room for you!