I got the job!!!

Nursing Students General Students

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Specializes in ICU, psych, corrections.

I just got an early Christmas present....I was hired on at one of the hospitals here as a Critical Care Tech (Nurse Apprentice I) in the ICU. I'm so thrilled!!!! I really, really wanted the job. Not only will the experience be great, but it pays $13-14 an hour. I will work one or two 12-hour shift a weekend, so it won't interfere with my nursing classes. Oh happy day!!!! And if I do well as the Apprentice I, then when it comes time for them to hire the Apprentice II (which is VERY competitive), I will have my foot in the door.

I really thought I screwed up my interview by talking too much. I become VERY gregarious when nervous and felt like maybe I said too much. I also got teary-eyed in the interview over a few of the questions (patient related and other subjects close to my heart) and thought that might have scared them off. But the HR lady said I was great and they would be thrilled to have me as part of the team. Yes, I will only be functioning as a CNA until my 2nd semester of school is finished, but that's what I wanted. I told them I wanted to start out doing what a CNA did so that when I became an RN, I could appreciate all that the CNA's do for the nursing staff.

I've been without a job since September of 2002 so this will be strange going back to work. And working in a hospital, no less. The only job I've really ever had is waiting tables. I'm kind of terrified, but it's a good terrified if that makes sense? :eek: :D

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Hi Melanie,

CONGRATULATIONS!

I am thrilled for you!!!

~j

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Specializes in Geriatrics/Alzheimer's.

:balloons: Congratulations!!!!

I agree working as a CNA really helps one understand how hard CNAs work, how important they are and it is also a great way for you to get a feel of the nursing field. Due to the fact I was a CNA in my younger days, I really appreciate the CNAs who work on my shift. They are a great team and really care about the residents. Plus you have a fantastic chance of advancing now.

It is scary at first, but that is true of any new position.

What a wonderful Christmas present for you. :biggringi

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Specializes in ICU, psych, corrections.

Thank you. The only thing that bums me out is my classmate and friend interviewed right before me and didn't get the job. They hired a student from another nursing school to work in conjunction with me. It's a shame because she will make a great nurse and is a really hard worker. It's kind of hard to share my enthusiasm with her because I feel bad she didn't get hired as well.

But just the same, I'm excited for my first venture into the world of nursing. I'm thinking of shadowing before I officially start so I can get an idea of where things are at in this hospital. Anyone else ever shadow?

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Specializes in LTC, ER, ICU,.

congratulations. the experience will be great.

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Specializes in Adult Med-Surg, Rehab, and Ambulatory Care.

Congo rats, Melanie!

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Specializes in Emergency & Trauma/Adult ICU.

Way to go!

For any job, familiarity with the physical environment goes a long way towards feeling comfortable and confident - if you can shadow someone, even for a few hours, before your actual first day I'd definitely recommend it.

Best of luck to you,

Leigh

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Congrats! That's so exciting! As I've posted here before, I wouldn't trade my experience as a tech for anything.

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Specializes in ICU, CM, Geriatrics, Management.

Fantastic news!

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Congratulations... I am looking around my area for a patient care tech position myself. I really would like to gain the experience prior to becoming an RN.

Way to go...

Lynda in VA

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Specializes in OB, lactation.

Congrats!!

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Congratulations!! I can just feel your excitement brimming over! Best of luck!!!:balloons:

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