new york or canada?

[kaye09]

Hey guys I'm a new member here and I decided to finally register because I would like to ask for your opinions regarding on what country should I go. Is it New York or Canada? I'm a nurse here in the Philippines but no experience yet. My uncle who is a nurse in New York told me to take NCLEX so that when the recession is over I can go there. But I don't know how long will I wait for that. On the other hand my auntie in Montreal said that I can go there and work as a caregiver,it would be my stepping stone. Then when I'm already settled there I can take the CRNE so that I can practice my profession. But I've read a lot of negative comments about Quebec and I need to be also fluent in French.But going to Canada is I guess would be much easier than going to New York.So now I am confused on what to do and where to go. Can you please help me decide by giving your opinions and real experiences would be a great help. Thanks for reading. Hoping for your replies.

[NotReady4PrimeTime, RN]

Quebec does not accept the CRNE for licensure. The rest of Canada doesn't accept the OIIQ (Quebec's licensing exam). Nurses in Quebec are not treated all that well and they are not paid all that well compared to the rest of the country either. Nurses are in demand because there's little done to retain them. Working as a caregiver will NOT be a stepping stone... more likely a millstone around your neck. And as mentioned, you'd be isolated, treated like a servant and worked very hard for a pittance in wages. There is no regulation or protection for that class of worker; you will have no contract of any sort that you can use to protect yourself and you'll be at the mercy of your employer.

It will be a long and difficult road to either of your choices. Your lack of experience will be a definite hindrance to finding a job anywhere right now. Make sure you're making a decision based on the best information you can get and keep your eyes open to the pitfalls that could prevent you from being successful with either.

[kaye09]

Thanks for the advice janfrn. I'll keep that in mind. I know it will not be easy as for everyone is, but I still want to take my chances and hoping for the good outcome for whatever path I decided to go. Just keeping my faith as well as my fingers crossed.

[NotReady4PrimeTime, RN]

Keep your eyes open. Pay attention. Maybe read the online newspapers available for Montreal and New York, looking for stories related to health care and/or nursing. Things change very quickly and if you don't keep up, you'll find yourself running around in circles.