Need advice on how to get hired as a new nurse

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I won't graduate until May 12 with my RN/BSN, but with all the talk of new grads having trouble getting their foot in the door I want to be ready and ahead of the game. I am curious what kinds of certs or experience might help me towards my end goal. I want to work ICU to eventually become a CRNA. I know to get PALS, ACLS, BLS, and CNA experience. So far I have not been able to get on at any hospital as a CNA.

I'm willing to start anywhere and go anywhere, but ICU would be my first choice.

What other certifications are available to me without having experience?

Is there anything else I could possibly get to help make me a more attractive applicant?

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Specializes in Leadership, Psych, HomeCare, Amb. Care.

Yes, get hands on patient care experience.

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Specializes in ED, Cardiology.

any of the cert's you mention can be done without experiences. however, see if you can volunteer in a hospital, long term care facility or on a local fire department. hands on experiences to me, counts much more initially than any aha cert. acls, bls and pals are often mandatory and will be paid by the employer. it is nice to have but can and will not replaces hands on experiences.

i am shocked to hear from you guys how bad the job market is for new grads. all of you guys, hang in there, focus on getting the best grades possible for you and get some volunteer time in.

volunteering to me is a win-win situation!

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Specializes in ICU.

The market is bad, not just for 'new grads'. Try volunteering. Might be a good way to meet the right people in your local hospital.

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