Dream Job as an ED nurse BUT I'm a new grad SO I need advice....

[PatiencePlease]

Hey everyone!

Graduated last year STILL looking for a job like most RN's all over. I have a few things against me, I'm only an ADN (Chicago only wants BSN and can you blame them when they have the pick of whoever they want even though I think it's a bunch of BS but that's a WHOLE 'nother thread! :) )ANYWAY, I'm only an ADN, I only have a 3.0 (god forbid I work full time in addition to going to school and it doesn't matter of course that I pulled it from a 2.0) and I went to school about 80 miles outside of Chicago and I ideally would like to work in Chicago or the surrounding suburbs.

What I've been told by a lot of nursing recruiters is that most hospitals hire students from schools in their region.....is that true? I HATE the area I'm in now with a passion. Extenuating circumstances R/T my health got me stuck out in that area.

So anyway, I've come to the realization that I'm going to hate my first job, because it's not going to be what I want to do. All of my nursing instructors told me I wouldn't get what I want at first anyway (supportive aren't thay?). I know I shouldn't be picky, and I really can't afford to be but unless I'm living out of my car, I'm not taking a job in long term care, or in a mentally handicapped facility. I think the people that nurse there are angels, I have SO much respect, but I can't do it. I'm not even going to be able to get into a hospital at this point (grades, ADN). I have had one interview and have been flat out told by HR, nurse recruiters etc, "Please stop calling." It's been a joyous trip down "Let's get a nursing job Lane!" I have followed up on every application sent out (look at my phone bill for proof!) and still nadda. So it's not for lack of trying.

I eventually want to nurse in an ED. That is my goal and I will attain it. Do any ED nurses have any advice how to get into the ED after some experience? I may have a job at a plasma donation center, so it's mainly assessment skills and phelbotomy and I plan on attaining my ACLS and PALS on my own (yes I know they are expensive). ED is where I want to be. I just need to know how to get there. Any ideas?

Thanks!! Sorry for my slightly cynical/bias view towards some nursing specialities and I apologize if I offended.

PP

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

I am certainly not offended but your note indicates you do not get the big picture yet. That will come with time. ALL experience is good. Keep plugging away at hospitals for a job. You would be able to transfer to ED after a period of time, if not hired directly. ACLS and PALS are not worthwhile to someone who does not practice them and will not help you get a job. Managers want experience, not credentials. GOOD LUCK

[Sun_danc3rRN]

I agree with ClassicDame..and just as another point..don't say you are "just an RN". Do you know what they call and ADN RN and a BSN RN? It is both the same...Nurse...be proud of what you are.

[MikeyBSN]

I got a job in the ED after nursing school and have done fairly well for myself. The ED is more difficult than other areas so managers are reluctant to hire without experience. I know you don't want a nursing home job, but you could be working on a med-surg unit right now and gaining experience. I personally believe that the geography will hurt you in general. However, I would make it very clear in any cover letter that you would like to move to the area where you are applying and let them know you are at least familiar with the area. As for ACLS and PALS, I disagree with the above advice. Although it is true that experience is better than anything else, ACLS and PALS will show your dedication and ambition. In fact, I think most of our new grads had ACLS when they came on board. I didn't, but things are a little worse now. It's true that you can later get an employer to pay for it, but getting it won't hurt you and you might even be able to negotiate the cost when you do get a job. Good luck.

[Faeriewand, ASN, RN]

It's too bad you don't live where I do. My hospital hires new grads in the ED and they hire from my school which is a community college so no need for the BSN. (wonder if that will change anytime soon) And during the interview they ask our grads why haven't you gotten your ACLS? PALS? My hospital at least wants a person to have it upon hire but hired people that didn't have it.

Good luck! :)