Desperately need advice

[Cynbar1988]

Okay long story short, I recently just passed my Nclex RN right off the bat after graduating nursing school which was an ASN program, studying for that exam was the most intense experience of my life!!! I thought my worries were over... BOY was I wrong. I'm in an endless despair of trying to find work in the NYC area. Every posting, I run into BSN preferred and experience required. Like really!!! I apply anyways hoping to get an interview, but to no avail.... Mind you I'm BLS/ACLS/IV certified. I am currently applying for RN-BSN program here in New York for the fall 2016, I didn't need any job posting to tell me this, It was my intention from the beginning after graduating and I don't think I should have any problem getting accepted with my GPA and professors letter of recommendation, at least I hope not. So my question is, should I just suck it up and earn my stripes working as a CNA until I complete my BSN to gain experience. I know it's not the best option since I'm already a RN, but at this point I have no choice.

By the way I found I out I can get my CNA certificate with my RN license and I don't need to take any exam, which is a blessing. Any suggestion will greatly be appreciated.

[WookieeRN, BSN, MSN, RN]

You might want to check with the facilities, as they may not hire you/let you work as a CNA if you are actively licensed as an RN.

NYC is notoriously difficult for new grads with OR WITHOUT a BSN. Any chance you could move to get experience?

[strawberryluv, BSN, RN]

I'd try nursing homes, I applied to hospitals and was unable to get hired but applied to nursing homes and got called within 3 weeks of applying. With the high turnover rates in long term care facilities, new grads have a chance! I, also, found I actually enjoyed long term care nursing..give it a try!

[target98765]

You have some options. 1. You could move to find a hospital job, 2. You can apply to nursing homes; they are more likely to hire a new RN with an ADN. I am the major metro city down south of NY and it is the same thing here regarding ADN vs. BSN. You could have 20 years of experience in your area, carry a ADN, but if you apply for a position in a "BSN only" hospital you don't even get past the screening, they do not call you. There is almost no hope of getting a call to interview.

[applesxoranges, BSN, RN]

It may not be legal to work as an RN as a CNA. In my state it has to do with delegation and you can't technically delegate another task to the same level. I would honestly see if you can move even if it is just for a year. What about moving to somewhere warmer? Or somewhere with beautiful views?

If my boyfriend and I broke up tomorrow, I would begin trying to find another job in a different state.

[Cynbar1988]

I took your suggestion and I immediately got several interviews lined up for nursing homes. Never thought off it because I hated my nursing home rotation, but I'm being optimistic.

[susanne.miller]

Dear Cymbar,

Why don't you try Home Care with an agency? You can work as an RN and get paid well. You can do Peds or adults. It's less stressful - you have only one pt and in some cases if you work nights you will be able to study. They need nurses and you should have a job on the spot if you are hired. At least it will give you some experience as an RN until you get your BSN.

Let me know if this helps!

Good luck!

Susanne RN