Does it matter where you complete your Graduate Nurse Year/Program

[kdon27]

Firstly, thank-you for taking the time to read this.

To put it shortly, is it a bad idea to start off in such a small hospital so early on? Would it hinder the development of my skills? And, would it lessen the likelihood of gaining employment in a bigger hospital later on, maybe in a different area such as the ER or such acute care settings?

I've been looking at this one hospital in particular; it's quite a small private hospital, primarily focused on surgery and recovery. There are about 70 beds in the entire facility, no ER or any ICU just a 4-bed high-dependency recovery unit.

Basically, I just want to have a stable nursing career and I believe getting as much experience as possible *now* in diverse settings would be the best way (I think so but if I'm wrong, please tell me!).

But at the same time I am worried that if I pass on any opportunities in smaller hospitals, I may not get another opportunity later on...

All thoughts, comments, and advise is warmly welcome and truly appreciated!

Thank-you :)

[xoemmylouox, ASN, RN]

I think getting a job at a hospital will help you regardless of the size.

[kdon27]

Thanks for your input xoemmylouox. Greatly appreciated :)

[aachavez]

I would think starting in a smaller hospital might be a good idea for a new grad, fewer patients, not as busy, less intimdating...I dont think it would hinder you in moving to a larger hospital.

Im wondering if starting at a LTC or SNF would be an issue; most facilities want that 1 year of experience, but will I be looked over becuase that first year was at a nursing home?