Chances of a new grad starting in an ER

[IndependentMN]

I graduate with my RN in December and I really would like to work in an ER. Anything I've seen locally requires a years floor experience minimum before moving into an ER. Background is I've worked as an LPN for 6 years and in healthcare for over 12 (3 years as an LPN for Mayo Clinic). I've floated to ICUs, worked in a correctional facility and most recent gig is with vent dependent patients. All this mentioned because I don't feel like I'm stepping out of nursing school completely naïve. Any advice or recommendations? I'd be willing to intern and I'm not set on staying in Minnesota either.

Thanks in advance

[amzyRN]

If I were you, I'd start looking at hospitals I'd like to work at and see what their requirements are. Call their HR and see if the minimum qualifications are flexible. There are hospitals that take new grads into specialties, probably fewer than those that do not, but I think you'll find something. I was able to find something in ER that allowed a non ER nurse to train at a different hospital that I was working at the time. Wow, it was a tough ER and I can see why they were willing to train new grads and non ER nurses but it was a great experience. It was understaffed (significantly) high acuity with broken equipment. But the staff was awesome and I learned a ton of stuff. Good luck to you!

[Lunah, MSN, RN]

A lot of places offer ER nursing fellowships or residencies for new grads. You'll just have to look around!

[liatard]

I entered the ER as a new grad by seeking out nurse residencies. I literally googled the heck out of it, found two that looked great, and applied & got into both. The one I chose in the PNW was a fantastic 6 month program. With your experience you're a great candidate. Work on shaping your resume toward ED - I volunteered in an ED and managed to complete my practicum in the ED, so it was obvious that's where my passion was. It's definitely possible!

[HarleyGrandma, RN, EMT-B]

I just passed the NCLEX yesterday (yay!) and I'm starting a new grad residency in a level II trauma ED in July. I got my EMT last year and have been volunteering at my local squad ever since. There are opportunities out there, you just have to track them down and be proactive. Best of luck!