LVN soon to be RN...should I apply for internships now? I'm afraid of the paycut

[slelder]

I was reading some of the pay rates in the "New Grad pay" post (especially the new grad who applied at Parkland), and now I'm more afraid of what is going to be my outcome as an RN. I have been an LVN for 4 years(graduate in Dec. with ADN) and after reading what some of the RNs posted about their pay, it is suddenly feeling like I've made a mistake by bridging. Although I do work in Ped HH, I make a lot more $ than most RNs I've heard about. I am not sure what I should do as far as applying for internships at hospitals because I'm depressed at the thought that I'll clearly be taking a paycut.

[joanna73, BSN, RN]

You could apply for internships just to see what the outcome is. Since you already have nursing experience, you may not be required to intern. This will depend on the job market where you live and the hiring manager. If I were you, I'd just apply for RN positions you feel you're suited for. The worst they can say is no.

[auntstel]

I was reading some of the pay rates in the "New Grad pay" post (especially the new grad who applied at Parkland), and now I'm more afraid of what is going to be my outcome as an RN. I have been an LVN for 4 years(graduate in Dec. with ADN) and after reading what some of the RNs posted about their pay, it is suddenly feeling like I've made a mistake by bridging. Although I do work in Ped HH, I make a lot more $ than most RNs I've heard about. I am not sure what I should do as far as applying for internships at hospitals because I'm depressed at the thought that I'll clearly be taking a paycut.

I also was a LPN before going on for my RN. That was back in the late 70s, and I went thro a bridge program. I was able to work full time as an LPN during the 18 months of the program. I know it has been many years ago, but I was not required to do an internship, and was able to go back to the same hospital just in a new role. Your best bet might be to stay with the same company as an RN. Just a suggestion. Good luck!

[KbmRN, ADN]

I am in a similar situation, and i would not recommend applying until you have passed your boards. A lot of my new grad friends are applying and getting started at these horrible "NEW GRAD" salaries. I feel like the hiring manager via the hospitals, LTC, or home health, see you as desperate for a job at the moment if your applying before you have taken your boards. This is just from my experience. I have 4 years as an LPN as well & just got my job as an RN case manager.