How soon can I work as a GPN?

Published

Specializes in LTC.

I am about to finish Practical Nursing School. I know there is a frame of time where I can work as a graduate practical nurse before I receive my license, but how soon can I start and what kind of proof do I need? If I don't get my diploma in the mail until July, do I have to wait that long before I work? My graduation was last night and my pinning is next Wednesday. What will I have to show that I've graduated?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
I am about to finish Practical Nursing School. I know there is a frame of time where I can work as a graduate practical nurse before I receive my license, but how soon can I start and what kind of proof do I need? If I don't get my diploma in the mail until July, do I have to wait that long before I work? My graduation was last night and my pinning is next Wednesday. What will I have to show that I've graduated?

I started working at a hospital about two weeks after graduation. I applied for it at about the same time as I graduated. The two weeks were spent playing the waiting game and going back for interviews, etc. They did want the diploma. It seems like they also wanted verification that I was eligible to sit for the NCLEX. I had worked there for about a month when I took the NCLEX and for about two months before I was licensed. I could have taken longer if needed, but I don't know what the time frame was. Won't they give you the diploma at your graduation ceremony? The other paperwork should be easily attainable from your school. I didn't have any problems getting a job without the license.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
I am about to finish Practical Nursing School. I know there is a frame of time where I can work as a graduate practical nurse before I receive my license, but how soon can I start and what kind of proof do I need? If I don't get my diploma in the mail until July, do I have to wait that long before I work? My graduation was last night and my pinning is next Wednesday. What will I have to show that I've graduated?

Many states require that you have an interim permit to work as a nurse, which means that you have met all of the qualifications but have not taken NCLEX. This varies by state, so you should check with your individual board of nursing.....................

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Hi, Betty!

I'm an RN ADN student in Kansas and I just finished second semester. I will be sitting for the NCLEX-PN exam in June. I was hired on at a local nursing home as a GPN (Graduate Practical Nurse) before I become licensed. The only proof they needed was a letter from the nursing department stating I was eligible to take boards. The Executive Assistant to the Dean of Nursing composed my letter and faxed it over to the hiring company. You can work as a GPN for 90 days. Hope this helps and good luck!

Sherri

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in LTC.

Thank you.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
I am about to finish Practical Nursing School. I know there is a frame of time where I can work as a graduate practical nurse before I receive my license, but how soon can I start and what kind of proof do I need? If I don't get my diploma in the mail until July, do I have to wait that long before I work? My graduation was last night and my pinning is next Wednesday. What will I have to show that I've graduated?

You can practice as a GPN for 120 days or until you get the results from NCXLEX. Pass-LPN, fail-CNA Just kidding, sure you'll pass.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I'm a GPN, how do i apply for a permit?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in LTC, AL, Corrections, Home health.

As of 2007 or 2008, the state of Kansas does not allow individuals to work as graduate nurses, you cannot have any of the responsibilities or duties of a nurse until you are licensed. This sucks, but I guess too many people were going out there and working, then putting off taking the test or failing it when they did. My cousin has been an LPN for like 5-6 years and she worked for months before taking her NCLEX, but I graduated in December of 2008 but couldn't work until Feb when I passed my boards. This was an old thread from before the laws changed.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

You are correct Heather. No more working as a GPN in the state of Kansas.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion