Ageism in Nursing Employment

[Jmd623]

Why, after 30 years of knowledge gained as a  RN BSN, is it so difficult to be considered for even a part time or per diem position?

I keep hearing how my resume is so impressive, yet I cannot get an interview opportunity to share my knowledge. While it is true that I can no longer lift a patient or run around for an 8 hour shift, certainly my brain is still valuable!

I have spent 20 years most recently in a variety of management roles for the same network, yet cannot even get an opportunity with them. It smells of ageism in nursing/ healthcare, which seems ridiculous considering the shortage  being experienced now. The fact that my state (PA), has not yet implemented compact nursing has added to the problem, as I am not eligible for many out of state jobs! 

[toomuchbaloney]

Jmd623 said:

Why, after 30 years of knowledge gained as a  RN BSN, is it so difficult to be considered for even a part time or per diem position? I keep hearing how my resume is so impressive, yet I cannot get an interview opportunity to share my knowledge. While it is true that I can no longer lift a patient or run around for an 8 hour shift, certainly my brain is still valuable! I have spent 20 years most recently in a variety of management roles for the same network, yet cannot even get an opportunity with them. It smells of ageism in nursing/ healthcare, which seems ridiculous considering the shortage  being experienced now. The fact that my state (PA), has not yet implemented compact nursing has added to the problem, as I am not eligible for many out of state jobs! 

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Older nurses often have years of experience which make them higher cost for the employer.  It's a business model.  

[Okami_CCRN, BSN, RN]

It is incredibly unfortunate that you are having a difficult time obtaining a position with less time commitment. I do not know if it is necessarily ageism though; my experience is that it is usually difficult to move within the same system. 

Usually management will block movement or HR is prioritizing outside candidates, etc. My experience has been to seek new employment in a different system. I know this is not always feasible given the monopolization in healthcare. 

[LindaGracie, ADN, BSN]

If you were in South Carolina in my area, we would definitely hire you for our home care and home health agency. We find baby boomers are the best employees. They are loyal, hard workers, dependable and have common sense and critical thinking skills. Try looking for small mom and pop agencies that value their employees. Also Bayada has some good offices but terrible offices. Call around and interview these type of agencies.

[Jmd623]

Thanks for your helpful comments.

[Okami_CCRN, BSN, RN]

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[KathyDay]

When I was 50ish, I applied for an Employee Health job at the smaller of 2 hospitals in my city.  I had experience in the larger hospital and great referrences.  I had only worked per diem for a while because I wanted to be available for my young granddaughter...my only grandchild.  I had the experience and the willingness to learn more.  The interview went well, and I never heard another word from them...not even a rejection letter.  I believe it is ageism, pure and simple.  I may have put on my disgruntled face when the interviewer said something about how they wanted someone who could it the ground running in their new hire.  Yup...runners...that is what they want, and we older nurses just don't fit that bill.  Hitting the ground running is a way to say..."you will work your orifice off and you will get no help".  I am so glad I am beyond all that now.....

[Jmd623]

I am sorry that you had that experience!