From NC to Il RN job searching Chicago

[mcsampson]

I graduated in 2012 with my associate's degree from a community college. Luckily I was able to land a job in NC on a cardiothoracic ICU and completely fell in love with it. My partner and I are moving to Chicago and unfortunately I am unable to find a position because I do not have my BSN. Most positions I apply for i.e. CTICU, CCU, or any critical care areas require a BSN to even apply. I am getting kicked out of all systems when I check the "Associate's Degree" box. When I call HR departments, they will not allow me to submit a paper application illustrating my credentials and 2 years experience on CTICU. Does anyone have any suggestions for me as far as breaking through this barrier? I am already applying for BSN programs at this time but that is still not any help. Thanks!!

Missy

[poppycat, ADN, BSN]

Have you tried Advocate hospitals? I know they've been advertising a lot for critical care nurses but I don't know if they require BSN. They have about 9 hospitals around the Chicago area (city & suburbs).

[mcsampson]

Where have they been advertising? I'm on their website a lot applying to things but I don't see many critical care positions. Thanks for the response :).

[poppycat, ADN, BSN]

I actually follow Advocate on Facebook & they post on there several times a month about openings in critical care & ED.

[schnookimz]

Almost all of advocates hospitals require a BSN. Try presence health--they do not require a BSN.

[mcsampson]

Thanks for all of the help! I've been applying to both Advocate and Presence. Waiting to hear from them.

[poppycat, ADN, BSN]

You could also try Centegra. I don't know much about them because their hospitals are in the north suburbs & I'm in the south suburbs but it's another possibility.

[schnookimz]

Centegra is really far out north. Like an hour drive from Chicago just so you know.