Cant find a job!!!

[ct1tx]

I am a new LVN just got my licence in oct. but I am starting to get worried I havnt been able to find a job I applied at a nursing home today but I really had my hopes set for a hospital. I have applied at hospitals and some clinics and some specialty hospitals but no calls from anyone. I was told all through school by the instructors that a nursing home is a big mistake for a new nurse because they stick you with 30 pt's and only 2 days of orientation and training. What do you all think about new nurses in a nursing home is it that bad. Or where else can I apply besides hospitals? By the way I live in the DFW area.

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

I live in the DFW area, Fort Worth to be more precise. I have been an LVN since January 2006, and I have never encountered any difficulties with landing a job. When I faxed my resume to nine different workplaces toward the end of last year, 5 of these places called me back almost immediately.

However, my expectations are very realistic. I only apply at nursing homes, skilled nursing facilities, home health agencies, and hospice, because I know that these areas are where LVNs are in greatest demand. Also, I am willing to work as far as 50 miles from my home. I worked at a psychiatric hospital in Denton part-time, and lived in South Fort Worth, which amounted to a 51 mile commute one-way.

If you're seeking new skills, my suggestion is to apply at long-term acute care hospitals such as Kindred or Lifecare. They easily hire LVNs, and you'll learn plenty of skills and some critical care experience (yes, these places have ICUs).