Assistant Department Manager transition to Floor RN

[bhuizar]

Hi! I graduated nursing school and got my CA RN license in 2012. I was in a residency program when it lost funding and couldn't find a job in the Bay Area. I decided to go back to school to pursue a degree in Chinese Medicine. I want to work as an RN and someday, become an NP, and work as an acupuncturist as well. I had no idea how hard it would be to get into the hospital without experience, even with my RN license. I'm looking for advice on how I can obtain some experience to get me into the hospital. I realize now I should have left the Bay after graduating to find a job but I can't live in the past. My RN license is active and so are my BLS, ACLS, PALS, and NRP certificates. Can I work as an Assistant Department Manager (requires RN license and no experience) and someday transition to a floor RN position? Would love your words of wisdom!

[LovingLife123]

Your problem is you graduated in 2012. You are no longer a new grad, and now no experience.

I'm not sure that you could help run a dept with no experience. You need to look for any nursing job out there. Not just the hospital.

[Calalilynurse]

Even if the job doesn't say nursing experience. I'm sure its assumed you have nursing experience to be qualified for that position. I think you should try a nursing home, LTC, SNF, school or anything to get some nursing experience. Long-term care or skilled nursing would probably help you get your foot in the door at a hospital. If you can move I would look outside the bay area.