Discussion

Experience for new grad

Sep 25, 200916 yr

For a new RN graduate, is it best to start at a large hospital and move to a smaller hospital for the experience; or work at a smaller hospital to gain more confidence in your skill then move to a bigger hospital?

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6 Replies Active 06/09/2026 07:54 PM

Sep 25, 200916 yr

It depends on how small of a hospital you are talking about. I worked in a rural facility where there was only 1 RN on at night for the ER and Med Surg. I hated it! If I had any questions (and I did...I was a new grad!) I had didnt have anyone to turn to. I now work in a larger facility in Med Surg and its much more my fit. I have coworkers with me and I dont feel like I am alone.

It depends on what floor you want to work on, how big the smaller hospital is, and where you ultimately want to end up.

Sep 25, 200916 yr

:typingThough I have not officially started my nursing program, I am planning on sticking around at a smaller facility for a short period of time in order to perfect my craft then move on to a larger facility. Like the pp said it depends on where you really want to be in the end and what kind of person you are. ;)If you like to be amongst a large number of colleagues then large is the way to go, but if you prefer things more intimate then go with smaller. I hope you make the right decision for yourself. :yeah: :twocents: :nurse: