Did I Shoot Myself in the Foot?

[mashelle13]

Ok, here goes...I graduated last Aug and passed the NCLEX-PN 1st try in late Oct. Got a job in Nov & quit Dec (yes, I lasted a month). The nursing home I was working in was pure hell and putting my license at jeopardy. Yes, I voiced my concerns several times. I wasn't the only one. Anyways, now I am applying at different places and wondering should it even be put down as experience? I can't lie and say I'm fresh to the field (I did learn a lot of things). I just feel like this place completely undermines what we do. I feel really disenchanted, but need to start fresh and know there is light at the end of the tunnel. I'm also pursuing higher education and have a meeting with a university tomorrow. Feeling really bummed bc it's taken 10 years just to get this certificate and I feel like a failure. Any support, wisdom, advice would be really appreciated.

[SoldierNurse22, BSN, RN]

I'd be honest with your future employers. Otherwise, you're going to come into a new job looking like a new grad on paper but knowing more than a new grad would know.

As far as why you left, "not a good fit" is always a good explanation.

[megan215, LPN]

I agree with SoldierNurse22. Just be upfront and discuss your skills. You're still technically a new grad cause you've been out less than 6 months but explain how much you did learn at your previous job. Have you tried a cover letter? Or revamping your resume to highlight the experience you did get at this job?? I'm in a similar situation, don't love my job and looking for a new one. It's my first job as an LPN as I also graduated in Aug and got my license in November. But I put it as experience anyway because there really isn't much else I could do.... as everyone else always tells me, if they want you, they'll hire you. Good Luck!!!

[mashelle13]

Thanks guys! I sent out my resume for a home health agency needing weekend nurses. I'm really networking with fellow classmates. I did put down my last job, so we'll see how it goes. As for school, ADN looks more ideal now. It's back to square one, but being positive really helps.