The question I have is rather redundant and probably have been asked thousand times, but nevertheless I still want fresh responses. My passion is to become a critical care nurse, but of course considering today's market it's nearly impossible to get a job in a hospital, much less in a critical care unit. But I am not the one who gives up, that is why I am here to ask for your advice.
I graduated with an ADN with academic honors in March, 2014, and was licensed in June, 2014. I made a huge mistake not to work as a CNA during schooling. The only CNA job i was offered in a hospital was in conflict with my clinicals, so I had to let it go. After that I didn't have any interview opportunities. So, ultimately I don't have any hospital experience. To compensate that I obtained ACLS, PALS, TNCC, and currently working on my EMT-basic. I want to volunteer for a hospital, but they don't even respond to that.
I am also going to continue my education this summer and plan on getting my BSN within a year.
My question is should I continue searching or should I take what I am often offered (utilization review, post-acute, rehab, nursing homes) and continue searching. I heard mixed opinions about that, that is why I want to hear what critical care nurses think. Are there any other nursing jobs other than the ones in a hospital setting that could improve my chances of being even considered for the position. I am not as concerned about finding a job, as I am concerned about having an opportunity to improve my chances of being a critical nurse either now or later. What would you recommend?
PS I tried to network, and met a lot of nice people but so far no tangible results.
Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.
I would consider applying for jobs in telemetry units and step downs. I would try for more outlying facilities and avoid downtown. Enroll in any course towards your BSN and you are able to say "Currently working on my BSN", Look into LTACH facilities (Long term acute care) they have ICU's and are willing to train.
Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN
20,908 Posts
I would consider applying for jobs in telemetry units and step downs. I would try for more outlying facilities and avoid downtown. Enroll in any course towards your BSN and you are able to say "Currently working on my BSN", Look into LTACH facilities (Long term acute care) they have ICU's and are willing to train.
Illinois Long Term Acute Care Hospital, Long Term Acute Care Hospital in Illinois, Illinois LTAC Hospital Directory