Does "All Nurses" ever make you feel discouraged?

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This is a helpful site. I'm on here a lot. But more often than not, I get very scared about not being able to find a job after graduation. I knew going into this profession that finding a job will be a challenge. But I've seen so many comments saying that finding a job as an LVN will be extremely hard. As in, next to impossible. Also, I've seen "skip the LVN, go for your BSN". In my case, I don't have time to go for my BSN right away. I live in Southern California. Getting in to the nursing programs here is really hard. We have a lottery system here. You could wait forever and never get in. I could go to West Coast and spend $130,000 for my BSN but I refuse to do that. I have a 10 year old daughter to support.

I plan on climbing the latter to BSN. If I stay dedicated, I will probably succeed some day. But I can't help but get scared that I've made a huge, expensive mistake.

Does anyone else ever feel like this? Are there any So Cal LVNs out there that found a job and can ease my mind?

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I get discouraged reading AN on occasion (I'm an ADN student) for the same and other reasons when it comes to my new career. However; I keep telling myself that each situation is unique as is every geographical location when it comes to this sort of thing. I choose to believe that lots of things can change in two, three, even four years time and this current "lull" might not even be an issue when it is time for me to take the NCLEX.

Again, this is how I choose to view the situation rather than how it actually might be when the time comes. Perhaps it is my naiveté and 'sunshine, rainbows, and skittles' outlook... :down:

Other than that I enjoy AN for the amazing insight and information that I can glean from nurses that have came before me and have "been there". There really is no other site like it..

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I'm not in your state, so I can't really say what your employment outlook is really like. I think someone from your school would have sat you down to discuss your employment outcomes and goals while you were considering applying, but I realize that not all schools do. I see a lot of posts here that say there are no jobs. That they were lied to and deceived about the nursing shortage. I'm not so sure. There's a shortage in my state. I know, because I looked at the workforce and expected retirement/attrition rates before I signed up. I trust this "bubble". There are many opportunities in my state for LPNs. I finished my PN class with style, considered going straight out to the workforce (had three different places in mind), and then I chose to go on because I can achieve my goals better with an RN.

I know you say So Cali only, but if you ever thought about moving, keep ND in your mind. LPNs don't just work in the SNFs here, there's plenty of room to spare, and we have a pretty awesome attitude up here (just ignore the clownhouse they call the Legislature right now). Sounds like California is saturated. Like active transport, maybe cross to the lower gradient with some effort?

I wish you luck.

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Most LVN's I know either work in skilled nursing ,clinics and correctional facilities where I am but not sure if these facilities are still hiring.You may have to check the listings...

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I don't think going the LPN/LVN is EVER a mistake. You have to be realistic with the fact that you getting a job in the hospital as a LPN/LVN, are slim. ( and it really does depend on where you live)I'm fine with this realization. Now if working in the hospital is what your intentions are, then go for that BSN. In the meantime, get great experience as a LPN/LVN and go back to school. Best of luck to you!!

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I don't think going the LPN/LVN is EVER a mistake. You have to be realistic with the fact that you getting a job in the hospital as a LPN/LVN, are slim. ( and it really does depend on where you live)I'm fine with this realization. Now if working in the hospital is what your intentions are, then go for that BSN. In the meantime, get great experience as a LPN/LVN and go back to school. Best of luck to you!!

Believe me, I have no thought of working in a hospital with my LVN license. I'm willing to work anywhere! I guess fear gets the best of me sometimes. Fear doesn't help anything. I know in my heart getting my LVN isn't a mistake. I know nursing is the right path for me. Thanks for your reply :)

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I'm not in your state, so I can't really say what your employment outlook is really like. I think someone from your school would have sat you down to discuss your employment outcomes and goals while you were considering applying, but I realize that not all schools do. I see a lot of posts here that say there are no jobs. That they were lied to and deceived about the nursing shortage. I'm not so sure. There's a shortage in my state. I know, because I looked at the workforce and expected retirement/attrition rates before I signed up. I trust this "bubble". There are many opportunities in my state for LPNs. I finished my PN class with style, considered going straight out to the workforce (had three different places in mind), and then I chose to go on because I can achieve my goals better with an RN.

I know you say So Cali only, but if you ever thought about moving, keep ND in your mind. LPNs don't just work in the SNFs here, there's plenty of room to spare, and we have a pretty awesome attitude up here (just ignore the clownhouse they call the Legislature right now). Sounds like California is saturated. Like active transport, maybe cross to the lower gradient with some effort?

I wish you luck.

I have thought about moving. I've already had a conversation with my daughter. She said that she wouldn't mind moving away for a year or two as long as there is snow where we live. We've been in California for a long time ( as in forever) so snow would be nice. :)

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I'm in Northern California & I know exactly what you mean about the job prospects. I have accepted that I'm going to work in a SNF or correctional facility once I get my LVN. I will work there while perusing my RN. I accept that once I have that BSN soooo many more doors will open for me & that will keep me focused and motivated.

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