New graduate LPNs: any luck finding jobs.

myperdas,
Just curious, have you found anything yet? I really hope so, I can only imagine how much that could make a person feel down in the dumps.
-s

I know that many of you don't want to work in LTC but at this point it is a job. It is experience. I just finished the LPN portion of the program I am in (will be done with RN portion in May, 2010). I took the NCLEX on 9/11 and passed. There aren't many jobs available where I live for LPN's right now either but I have been working as a CNA at a nursing home and went to talk to the administrator about getting some experiences and training on the floor as an LPN. He was more than willing to let me start orientation...and for more of a raise than I was expecting. I'll still be working as an aide on my regularly scheduled weekends (at least until they can replace me or a permanent LPN spot opens up) but the opposite weekends I'll be getting some real job experience as a nurse. Job experience that will count on applications and resumes in the future.

I don't think any local hospitals are hiring LPNs at the moment due to the movement toward RN only. I have only seen a few full-time LPN job postings for any facilities. I think things will start changing next year. Facilities will realize that they are burning out their RN's and with burn-out comes injuries, illnesses, and retirement. It is all cyclical and things will change again. Similar to situations such as BSN vs. ADN nurses. My hope is to finish the ADN program I am in and start working, but at the same time continue on with school.

Good luck to everyone in the job search!

I am a new LPN and our local hospitals are hiring new RN's. Someone told me the reason why LPN's are having so much difficulty is because of insurance. The potential employers insurance company does not want to insure LPN's with less than a year experience. Good luck getting it. Worse you need the hours to keep your license. I am still holding out hope.
Statistically, my class graduated 21 of 23. This is a great number. Nineteen passed their NCLEX exam. Two who passed exam are not currently employed. I think you have to weigh opportunities in your state for new grads and devote the time either way. Whatever your decision, I know you can do it!

I graduated in April and recently got my license. Ive been applying for jobs here in LA and San Fernando Valley. I tried SNF, medical offices, hospitals but they dont want new grads!!

And to think these SNF have LVNs take care of 40 to 45 patients per shift. Dont they think thats way too many patients and they didnt want to hire new grads?

Ive also heard from my friend who recently got a job in a SNF in orange county, she was so desperate to find a job and she only gets paid $17 an hour.

This is ridiculous, if i had only known this, i should have stick to my Sales position at a cellphone company, i was making $15 an hr plus commission. Okay its not all about the money, but the healthcare system now sucks. Why do they discriminate new grads when there is a shortage of nurses!