Do New-Grads get to choose?

[futurenurse1710]

Hey Ya'll!!!

I was just wondering if a New-Grad gets to choose which area they want to work in? I am really fascinated by Labor and Delivery and all of it's aspects, and I know that is an area I would love to work in. I have heard though, that some hospitals make you work in Med-Surg if you are a New Grad with less than 1 year of experience. I would really be sad if that is the only option I was offered.

[hypocaffeinemia, BSN, RN]

Generally, yes, depending on your area. In most cities there are multiple internship opportunities in nearly every possible department- getting one is a matter of qualifying and being accepted.

In more rural areas without established internships, you may very well have to start in whatever position they'll let you work before making a transition to an area you like.

[JeffTheRN]

Not necessarily...I was a new grad about one year ago and I went right into Critical Care fresh out of school; and I work in an "inner city (+100K population)". All hospitals differ as far as their hiring requirements, so start researching!

[casperx875x]

Be on the lookout for internships if you are hoping to start in a specialty area. They are often competitive, so apply early! Best of luck in your job search!

[RNperdiem, RN]

It depends on the job market in your area when you graduate.

If there is a nursing shortage in your area, many hospitals have no choice but to open up more fields to new graduates. There are often well organized precepting and classes you take. If you are a new grad in these times, go where you want to go(or at least apply).

I graduated when there was not a nursing shortage. Whole hospitals wouldn't hire new grads for any position, let alone specialties. New grads were restricted to applying to was hiring.

[Montessori Mommy]

Follow your heart! Don't be afraid to go after what you really want! I knew the only two units I wanted were L & D and NICU, and had been told by instructors and nurses that I would need at least a year of med/surg before. I sent out resumes to the unit managers of all the area hospitals in January, interviewed in February and received multiple job offers- three months before graduation. I'm now an L & D nurse.

Honestly, I don't think juggling 6-8 patients on a med/surg floor would have helped me care for a laboring mom. It's rare for me to have more than one patient unless they are both in very early labor.

If this is what you really want, you'll find a way. Lots of persistance will pay off.

[SmilingBluEyes]

Yes, often they do, especially in areas where nurses are in short supply. I say, go for it like the others do. good luck.