Can a NG gain experience besides the hospital?

[Black Jade, BSN, RN]

Is there a way that a New Grad with an ADN gain experience other than in the hospitals? I've noticed that at this time of the year, it is difficult for a New Grad to get a job since they offer this type of position at least twice a year (from what I hear). Yet, many hospitals require that you have at least 1 year of experience or a BSN in order to get an entry level position.(Catch-22?). As a matter of fact, I've thought about going into Peace Corps doing teaching (I heard that's all you can do) if that can be counted as experience. I also thought of getting my BSN later down the road.

To be honest, I wouldn't want to work in the hospital. I am afraid that I would end up feeling overwhelmed. I get intimidated with all the IV's and tubes and fear of giving the wrong medications due to feeling rushed or having lack of sleep, etc... I also have a mild to moderate hearing loss and fear of not being able to distinguish between sounds such as crackles or murmurs, but I know this comes with having a good amplified stethoscope and plenty of practice.

I worked as a Medical Assistant in a clinic and I like the environment. However, I was told that working in the hospital is the best place to gain experience. I wouldn't mind working at my clinic as an RN, but would feel limited in terms of clinical skills, since I would be mostly doing triages and prescription refills. I would consider that option when I am much older, but not as a newbie.

The areas that I'm interested in are wound care, ambulatory care, urgent care, public health and case management. I like assisting with minor procedures (Outpatient Surgery? Peri-Op?) and teaching since I feel that I'm educating myself as well as the patient.

Sorry that this is long, but I appreciate all the input you can give me.

[natrgrrl]

Well, I don't know about the area where you live but around here LPNs and ADNs can both work in hospitals. LPN jobs are hard to find but they are available. ADN and BSN are both RNs.

Maybe you need to move to a different area or drive a little farther from where you are looking right now.

Have you considered long term care? Are there any internships available?

[Black Jade, BSN, RN]

Natrgrrl, thanks for your reply. :nuke: I live in San Diego and yes, I've thought about LTC. I've never heard about internships after graduation only during the nursing program until today when my co-worker suggest I work in one. I was also thinking about Planned Parenthood since I also worked as a Family Planning counselor before. I like the teaching part. I guess I'll just have to look around.

[goodneighbor]

I am a new graduate also and I have heard many people say you have to start on med-surg also. I don't know--I really really enjoy LTC or elderly residents and have chosen to start there. My previous nonprofessional experience was in this field. It is just as fast paced and involved as any med-surg floor and you are more on your own (under the direction of an RN that is). I really believe it will be pretty crazy the first year anyway-I hear you won't be comfortable for at least three months-overwhelmed and feel like you are too slow and confused. You might as well be overwhelmed with something you love! I feel sympatico with my clients. I don't think you can really make a "bad decision"- you make a decision and go with it, do the best you can, and uphold the highest principles of nursing. Consult your more experienced peers when you have a serious question as to safety. Remember, nursing actions for the most part are done slowly for a reason-this is so you can think, consider and reflect. I am afraid also but courageous and pray for wisdom. I hear my professors in my memory-they kind of pop up when necessary! I dedicate myself to keeping my patients SAFE at this point. I learn a little more each day. Perhaps one CAN gain experience other than med-surg. Anyone else? Thank you.

[R*Star*RN, BSN, RN]

I have heard also that one the New Grad programs at hospitals fill up that you are pretty much out of luck and have to wait until a position opens up, unless you want to take one of the "less desirable" jobs in LTC or temp agencies sometimes hire new grads also. It may be possible to get a job at a clinic, I am looking into that myself at the moment. I would make sure that whatever job you get, it should be one where you'll use your skills more often then not so you can gain that crucial experiance. Good luck!