HOW in the H-E-double hockey sticks do I get a PHN job????

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So frustrated. My passion has been public health nursing for some time now, however, no one will hire me. In fact, I really believe I could help make the world a better place in a PHN position. I have been an ED nurse for 5 years, with no experience in public health, which is probably the main deterrent. If only I could get an interview where they could recognize my passion... because apparantly I don't look good on the application or resume. ANY suggestions??

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Maybe you could volunteer in one of their programs and get to know the staff that way? I interviewed for a PHN position a few years back, but they gave the job to someone more qualified. I'm still working acute care. Good luck.

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Thanks for the advice Kona2 :) Just curious... do you live on the Big Island? I tried to private message you but couldn't figure it out. Im moving there in October. If so, I'd love to talk further!

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A little surprising. When I was just starting out, I knew of two new grads who were hired into PHN positions, neither of which held PHN nurse certificates that I knew of. But then again, that was almost 20 years ago and in a different area of the country. Try to find out what you can do to make the cut. Hope you can eventually get hired.

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Specializes in Pediatrics.

Check out Early Childhood Intervention programs in your area. I got hired as a new grad into an Early Intervention program, and I'm sure they would LOVE your ED experience. Even if EI is not where you want to end up in the PHN world, it'd definitely be a way to get your foot in the public health door because most (if not all) programs are overseen by the DPH. Best of luck to you!

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