New Graduate RN dropped from orientation. How to get a new job?

[McConville47]

Hi Everyone,

I graduated from nursing school in May 2012, and was lucky enough to get my first nursing job in a new grad residency program on a critical care unit, that started up in August only 3 months after graduation. I thought I was so lucky.

The nature of the unit I was working on was challenging for a new grad, I do admit. However I worked effortlessly, even though I was bounced around from preceptor to preceptor and never felt that the training was consistent. Everything was going fine, I was never reprimanded or spoken to during my first 90 days on the job. It was only after I divulged that I had learning disabilities that they started to criticized my work and started to keep records of small things that happen to every new grad. Eventually, the nurse manager decided I was not a good fit and asked me to resign or they would have to terminate my employment.

Every new grad has trouble with time management and I was only asking the program director for a 2 weeks of added orientation. And was told by the nurse management and HR that I was given enough time on orientation and that they felt this was not a good fit. When I asked if I could be transferred to a lower acuity level they also said this was not an option. I feel like they did not even give me a chance or any help or guidance.

My question is should I list this job on my resume or leave it off? As I was only in the new grad program and working on the unit for 5 months. Can future employers find out that I was employed? I did gain very valuable experience during this time but just not sure how this will look as it is such a short period of employment and it will raise a red flag to future employers.

Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you for your help.

[St_Claire, ADN, RN]

That's valuable experience, I would definitely include it. It's okay to say the place was not a good fit and give an example or two of things you have liked to do. Hopefully these will be things in the new position. Stay positive about your experience.

[bebbercorn]

Agree with St_Claire. Just be prepared to discuss it in a positive way and divulge what you learned and how you've worked on your issue. Good luck!