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Discussion

Going Backwards

I've been an RN in NJ for 2 years now. I've had a 3 nursing jobs totaling 6 months experience. I worked at a summer camp last year & "mutually separated" from my employer 2 weeks before camp ended. I gave flu shots last Fall (seasonal position). Most recently, I worked as a Circulating Nurse in a surgi-center.

I was terminated after only 2 months with the reasons being "resistant to autonomy", "complaints from staff", "poor attitude". I was completely blind-sided, as I constantly received positive feedback from the staff on how well I was doing. I got the position from the high recommendations of a patient at a previous (non-nursing) job. However, I also felt pressure to work independently when I did not believe I was prepared to do so.

Therein lies my problem; I lack confidence. I don't believe I have the knowledge or experience to be an RN. I've been toying with the idea of moving out-of-state and/or doing something other than nursing but I really don't want to. I love the profession (still hate NJ, though) but I think this lack of confidence will haunt me in any position I'm lucky enough to get. I want to start from scratch & become a CNA but haven't heard of anyone going backwards.

I would like to know if I would have to go through a training program. Can I work before testing? What is the practical part of the test like? Will I be able to hold both licenses simultaneously? A professor once told me I put my RN license in danger when working "below" it; is that true? I'm truly at a loss. Any comments or advice would be helpful.

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    You really need to get a base line graduate experience. I suggest entry hospital nursing job to build your skills and gain confidence. Nursing is a great job but it sounds like your not happy in NJ .I still have my license there in Jersey but some many other states have treated new and fairly new nurses with good orientation that allow you to built that confidence. Don't give up

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    You can apply for an internship at one of the hospitals. That would give you more practical experience and when completed you would be ready. The other thing you can do, is figure out WHAT Specialty you are drawn to. You need to be where your heart is. Going backwards is not the answer. If you love working with children, then intern at a Children's hospital and go for it. If you love working in the OR, then get an internship there. You have passed the biggest hurdle..you love nursing and you graduated. Many new RNs feel like they are not ready. I have 40 years and sometimes I wonder if I really know what I am doing. also, if you can find the right manager, he/she will help you and bring you up on your timeline. Don't give up the dream, you will get there.

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