Help with application question...

[froggirl1129]

As a new grad and applying for LOTS of jobs, I come across a question that I am unsure of the best way to answer. I have worked in a hospital for 6.5 years now as a CNA-II and an ER Tech. When the apps ask me "How much acute care (or emergency) nursing experience do you have?", do I have to say none, or can I count my years in those areas that were great clinical experience but not as an RN? Also, can I count some of my clinical experience during school since I was able to go to some specialty areas that not all students are allowed to do?

[Sun0408, ASN, RN]

You can't count tech/CNA work as nursing experience. You also can't count clinical time as nursing experience but you can highlight what you've done on your resume. I would put the tech/CNA in your cover letter or talk about it in your interview. This helps them to know you do have experience with pts and the hospital setting.

[CrazierThanYou]

I agree with the above. They are asking for NURSING experience. Nothing else. I've seen on a few applications a notice saying that clinical experience does not count and should not be included.