Fired from first RN job

[IrishRN123]

Hello all,

I was recently fired from my first "New Grad" RN job. It was over two medication errors, this specific hospital writes you up automatically, there is no verbal warning. I was there a total of 16 weeks (112 days). I take full responsibility for each error (no pt's were harmed) and have learned a great deal from each.

My question now is do I put this on my resume? Am I required to list this experience? What about the application process? What do I say in interviews? Has my career ended and I should just give up on nursing?

I feel like such a failure, and I don't know what to do.

[ladside, BSN, MSN, LPN, RN]

Hello all,

I was recently fired from my first "New Grad" RN job. It was over two medication errors, this specific hospital writes you up automatically, there is no verbal warning. I was there a total of 16 weeks (112 days). I take full responsibility for each error (no pt's were harmed) and have learned a great deal from each.

My question now is do I put this on my resume? Am I required to list this experience? What about the application process? What do I say in interviews? Has my career ended and I should just give up on nursing?

I feel like such a failure, and I don't know what to do.

We have all made medication errors. These mistakes, early on, will only make you more cautious. The term "trial and error" was a derivative of just this type of thing. I'm not trying to make light of your situation but those who fired you should have taken you closer under their wings....after all, you ARE a new grad. Nobody's perfect. You can use this job as a reference or not....the decision is all yours. Just maintain your confidence and explain that your previous position was not as you had hoped it would be in that it didn't work out as planned. Good luck and don't give up!:yeah:

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

You will need to list it on your job history. Part of the Federally mandated hiring process for health care employers is a fairly extensive background check - this process includes a 'match' between your job history & FICA (deductions) paid by employers. This will uncover any hidden employers that withheld FICA deductions from your check.

[Nurse_RaRa]

Don't give up. things like this happen and you are NOT a terrible nurse because of it. I agree with both the previous posts. Just say it didn't worked out or it wasn't a good fit for me. That's what we all do. Then move on ASAP. Check and double check the stupid MAR and ORIGINAL orders on all patients meds - never just assume the nurse before you did it correctly. I caught a HUGE narcotic error this way. It is your license, protect it and keep going. Please don't beat yourself up over this speedbump in life! Remember - Never assume and ALWAYS ask questions. That hospital's staff should have helped you along. I hate it when they "eat their young" like this. I vowed never to do this to new grads. chin up! and good luck. You are a better nurse now. Welcome!