Help resume for new LVN

Home Health Columnist / Guide · Jun 23, 2013

As a new grad, your resume should be no more than 2 pages. Profile should be 2-3 lines. Do not need to list high school.

You list a BSN degree March 2009; if you matriculated, should be licensed as RN; need to address why you are applying as new LPN????

In US, work experience is assumed to be PAID experience. Teaching assistant volunteer is best listed under Volunteer experience.

westcoastguy · Jun 23, 2013

As a new grad, your resume should be no more than 2 pages. Profile should be 2-3 lines. Do not need to list high school.
You list a BSN degree March 2009; if you matriculated, should be licensed as RN; need to address why you are applying as new LPN????
In US, work experience is assumed to be PAID experience. Teaching assistant volunteer is best listed under Volunteer experience.

Yup That resume of mine is only 1 page if you print it.. I just screenshot it via my ipad. And divide it to 4 to paste here. Yup I'm a new LPN here in California. I'm from Philippines though thats why I have BSN degree. And fyi I'm one of the foreign grad qho got denied due to cases concurrency thats why I'm only LPN.

I came here at US last sept 2011. And just got my ATT in nclex lvn last january 2013. Okay I will edit the working experience and how bout my profile?

Thanks for your reply :)

xoemmylouox, ASN, RN · Jun 24, 2013

Your previous work experience/tasks need to be described in the past tense.

westcoastguy · Jun 24, 2013

Your previous work experience/tasks need to be described in the past tense.

Thanks.. So far is it good?? Is it good enough to apply as LVN? Thanks

notmanydaysoff · Jun 25, 2013

WCG - looks a bit wordy to me.

That you've played w/kids, kept a room organized, and positively interacted with parents and teachers is all well and good, but I would focus on nursing skills, knowledge, and experience.

If I was applying for a first time nursing job, I would put together a functional skills resume that focuses on nursing skills and experience.

If you do not know what that means or need help with putting a resume together, there are many online sites that can explain proper formatting, great vocabulary, and usage of words that pack "punch." Or better yet, invest some time and money and pick-up a resume writing book at the bookstore (or get one from your local library).

Have someone, preferably an english speaker and someone who works in HR, or a manager who routinely reads resumes/CVs, for their opinion.

You have one chance to get it right when handing your resume to someone. Make sure it paints the picture that you want/need it to. People who get resumes receive bunches - they're going thru stacks. What is it about yours that would make you stand out above another candidate.

BTW, What are you going to do with your BSN? Are you working towards CA licensure? Clarification is needed.

Here are some examples of some wording from the resume I put together when applying for a job a couple years ago. I prefer concise verbiage and bullet point formatting (which is appropriate for a resume). When I got my current job, I was a new grad and one of 220 applicants. My resume stood out, and I got a great job.

I would not use regular printer paper. Cotton bond or other heavy-weight resume paper makes a great presentation.

If possible, use a laser printer.

Make sure the document is proof read.

Individualize each and every cover letter.

Tailor the resume for each job.

Hand deliver if possible.

Make it look like you put some effort into the resume/job search.

Objective

Extremely motivated to contribute my skills and experience in providing outstanding patient care as a Licensed Vocational Nurse in an urgent care or clinic setting.

Professional Licenses

State of XX - Nursing License #

Medical/Nursing Skills

- Experience in both acute care and clinic settings.

- Nursing process, critical thinking, observant.

- Medication administration. Immunization clinic experience.

- Sample collection and preparation; in-office lab testing (blood, urine, rapid-test).

- Positioning and draping. EKG administration.

- Concise and proper documentation. Patient education.

- Post-surgery care, dressing changes, suture/staple removal.

- Infection control, instrument sterilization.

- Familiarization with health insurance, pre-authorization, and referral processes.

- CPR/BLS, IV Certified.

Special Skills and Abilities

- Highly motivated, professional ethics, and appearance. Productive team member.

- Spoken/written communication and interpersonal skills for effective patient interviewing and education. Extensive customer service experience.

- Word processing, spreadsheet, database, and general computer competency.

- Committed to a high standard of excellence, continuing education.

Employment History

indicate jobs and longevity. if the job is not nursing related don't include details, they are not important.

Good Luck!

westcoastguy · Jun 25, 2013

WCG - looks a bit wordy to me.
That you've played w/kids, kept a room organized, and positively interacted with parents and teachers is all well and good, but I would focus on nursing skills, knowledge, and experience.
If I was applying for a first time nursing job, I would put together a functional skills resume that focuses on nursing skills and experience.
If you do not know what that means or need help with putting a resume together, there are many online sites that can explain proper formatting, great vocabulary, and usage of words that pack "punch." Or better yet, invest some time and money and pick-up a resume writing book at the bookstore (or get one from your local library).
Have someone, preferably an english speaker and someone who works in HR, or a manager who routinely reads resumes/CVs, for their opinion.
You have one chance to get it right when handing your resume to someone. Make sure it paints the picture that you want/need it to. People who get resumes receive bunches - they're going thru stacks. What is it about yours that would make you stand out above another candidate.
BTW, What are you going to do with your BSN? Are you working towards CA licensure? Clarification is needed.
Here are some examples of some wording from the resume I put together when applying for a job a couple years ago. I prefer concise verbiage and bullet point formatting (which is appropriate for a resume). When I got my current job, I was a new grad and one of 220 applicants. My resume stood out, and I got a great job.
I would not use regular printer paper. Cotton bond or other heavy-weight resume paper makes a great presentation.
If possible, use a laser printer.
Make sure the document is proof read.
Individualize each and every cover letter.
Tailor the resume for each job.
Hand deliver if possible.
Make it look like you put some effort into the resume/job search.
Objective
Extremely motivated to contribute my skills and experience in providing outstanding patient care as a Licensed Vocational Nurse in an urgent care or clinic setting.
Professional Licenses
State of XX - Nursing License #
Medical/Nursing Skills
- Experience in both acute care and clinic settings.
- Nursing process, critical thinking, observant.
- Medication administration. Immunization clinic experience.
- Sample collection and preparation; in-office lab testing (blood, urine, rapid-test).
- Positioning and draping. EKG administration.
- Concise and proper documentation. Patient education.
- Post-surgery care, dressing changes, suture/staple removal.
- Infection control, instrument sterilization.
- Familiarization with health insurance, pre-authorization, and referral processes.
- CPR/BLS, IV Certified.
Special Skills and Abilities
- Highly motivated, professional ethics, and appearance. Productive team member.
- Spoken/written communication and interpersonal skills for effective patient interviewing and education. Extensive customer service experience.
- Word processing, spreadsheet, database, and general computer competency.
- Committed to a high standard of excellence, continuing education.
Employment History
indicate jobs and longevity. if the job is not nursing related don't include details, they are not important.
Good Luck!

Thanks!! i really appreciate your reply.. Yeah i know I'm kinda lost to my resume.. And i really don't know hot to put them aside and outline all the informations correctly.. Where should i explain about my BSN i came from another country thats why I have bsn here in CA i got denied to nclex RN due to concurrency issue regarding to our MS and OB duty cases.

westcoastguy · Jun 25, 2013

WestCoastguy, LVN 00 Spring Lane, Blah blah, CA 93000 | Cellphone: (123) 456-7890 | email: [email protected]

EDUCATION

Blah Univeristy of the Blah Blah [Address outside US]

BSN- Bachelor of Science in Nursing June 2005-March 2009

OBJECTIVE Utilizing my profession and knowledge in a challenging and rewarding STAFF NURSE POSITION (LVN) with a progressive company for the long term fulfillment where my work experience will have valuable application.

PROFILE A highly organized and friendly professional, able to focus on nursing care; positive and fun relationship with co-workers. Detailed oriented person with strong skills in time management, prioritizing task and meeting dedlines. Has enough experience and expertise in dealing with different patients and medical personnel such as physicians and other nurses, using interactive approach to help individuals with medical needs and had knowledge of basic medical procedures and its applications.

Related skills and Qualifications:

Patient/Resident Care in a acute care settings.

*California Licensed Vocational Nurse

*other Certifications

+CNA - American Red Cross

+CPR/ AED Adult Child and Infant- American Red Cross

+Standard First Aid - American Red Cross

+BLS - American Heart Association

+BLS/CPR Adult Child and Infant - American Academy of CPR & First Aid Inc.

+Healthcare Provider CPR - Academy of CPR & First Aid Inc.

+some IHSS attendance and training

+Good Moral Character- Blah Univeristy of the Blah Blah 1234

WORKING EXPERIENCE

Blah Nursing and Rehabilitation Center September 2012-April 2013

CNA [Address here in California]

Provided care (ADL) to the residents such as bathing and grooming. Assisted residents in ambulation and other activites. Feeding the residents. Transported patients using wheel chair. Turned and repositioned every 2 hours to prevent bed sores. Changed bed linens. Took and recorded temperature, bloop pressure, pulse and respiratory rates and fluid and food intake as directed.

Blah Blah Residence December 2009-August 2011

Private Nurse (home based) [Address outside the US]

Blah blah blah Residence May 2009-October 2009

Care Provider [Address outside US]

Volunteer experience:

Blah Medical Center March 2012-August 2012

Guest Services Ambassador & Cashier [Address here in California]

Positively interacted in professional manner with the patients and incoming visitors and patient's family. Provided great customer service, ancillary task and administrative assistance. Did some reception duties; answered and returned calls if needed. Help other hospital staff by some errands and being informative as well.

Blah blah Community Action Organization March 2012-February 2012

Preschool Support [Address here in California]

CHARACTER REFERENCES

Weastcoastgirl, RN

Charge Nurse

Blah Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

[phone]

Westcoastlady

Volunteer Director

Blah Medical Center

phone]

Westcoastbaby

Head Generations

Blah blah Community Action Organization

[phone]

---------

i really appreciate your comments. I''m a foreign grad (Other country) thays why I have my BSN Im here from California I came sept 2011 and got denied to nclex RN due to concurrency issues. i decided to work as CNA for 8 months and quit to focus for my nclex PN exam I just passed my board last month and i have interim permit only.

I dont know what to add and delete informations to my resume as you can see. That resume is only 1 page resume. I really appreciate your help thank you. And of course I dont know how to make cover letter.

notmanydaysoff · Jun 25, 2013

I suggested getting reference materials to put together a more professional resume. did you or are you winging this? it does not appear that english is your first language.

there are inconsistencies, grammatical errors, and non-sensical statements in this document. ex:

"Help other hospital staff by some errands and being informative as well."

"bloop pressure,"

Ginger's Mom, MSN, RN · Jun 25, 2013

Congrads on passing your boards.

"Has enough experience and expertise in dealing with different patients and medical personnel such as physicians and other nurses, using interactive approach to help individuals with medical needs and had knowledge of basic medical procedures and its applications".--- I do not know what this means, I read this you have had "enough" or you are burned out dealing with patients.

Your education, it not a strong point, not a mainstream way to enter the LVN profession. Also your education is old ( graduated in 2009), move to the bottom of your resume.

"Positively interacted in professional manner with the patients and incoming visitors and patient's family. Provided great customer service, ancillary task and administrative assistance. Did some reception duties; answered and returned calls if needed. Help other hospital staff by some errands and being informative as well"

Greeted patients and visitors. Assisted in administrative duties as requested.

Character References are something you use if you were arrested and need someone to voucher for your character, instead Professional references would be better.

CNA - American Red Cross - do not need applying as lvn

+CPR/ AED Adult Child and Infant- American Red Cross - dates needed also you have numerous CPR listed you only need one current.

+Standard First Aid - American Red Cross ??? First aid training is something that you should have learned in school.

+BLS - American Heart Association

+BLS/CPR Adult Child and Infant - American Academy of CPR & First Aid Inc.

+Healthcare Provider CPR -

Academy of CPR & First Aid Inc.

+some IHSS attendance and training - ????

+Good Moral Character- Blah Univeristy I have no idea what this is. IS this an award you obtained in school?

of the Blah Blah 1234

westcoastguy · Jun 25, 2013

I suggested getting reference materials to put together a more professional resume. did you or are you winging this? it does not appear that english is your first language.
there are inconsistencies, grammatical errors, and non-sensical statements in this document. ex:
"Help other hospital staff by some errands and being informative as well."
"bloop pressure,"

Nope english is not my primary language. And thank you for your response. I really dont know how to rearrange my resumw. It seems its so nonsense. Can you please help me how to edit this one.. Please

westcoastguy · Jun 25, 2013

Congrads on passing your boards.
"Has enough experience and expertise in dealing with different patients and medical personnel such as physicians and other nurses, using interactive approach to help individuals with medical needs and had knowledge of basic medical procedures and its applications".--- I do not know what this means, I read this you have had "enough" or you are burned out dealing with patients.
Your education, it not a strong point, not a mainstream way to enter the LVN profession. Also your education is old ( graduated in 2009), move to the bottom of your resume.
"Positively interacted in professional manner with the patients and incoming visitors and patient's family. Provided great customer service, ancillary task and administrative assistance. Did some reception duties; answered and returned calls if needed. Help other hospital staff by some errands and being informative as well"
Greeted patients and visitors. Assisted in administrative duties as requested.
Character References are something you use if you were arrested and need someone to voucher for your character, instead Professional references would be better.
CNA - American Red Cross - do not need applying as lvn
+CPR/ AED Adult Child and Infant- American Red Cross - dates needed also you have numerous CPR listed you only need one current.
+Standard First Aid - American Red Cross ??? First aid training is something that you should have learned in school.
+BLS - American Heart Association
+BLS/CPR Adult Child and Infant - American Academy of CPR & First Aid Inc.
+Healthcare Provider CPR -
Academy of CPR & First Aid Inc.
+some IHSS attendance and training - ????
+Good Moral Character- Blah Univeristy I have no idea what this is. IS this an award you obtained in school?
of the Blah Blah 1234

Thank you for your reply. As I said I came from other country thats why I have BSN and I just came here in US last sept 2011.

So you're saying that I cannot work as LVN coz I graduated 4 years ago?

How bout my CNA job is it okay to put there? Thats all my experiences here in US. Can you edit my other job details there like in volunteer and work experience pls thanks.