New Grad acute rehab interview (Portsmouth, VA)

[lss2829]

Hello, I am a new grad RN. I graduated in may then, took & passed boards in Oct. I have an upcoming interview for acute rehab unit at Bon Secours (Portsmouth, VA). This is my first interview so far and I'm really nervous (scared i'll freeze up or won't have the right answers etc).

Also, I'm scared because I feel a little rusty since I haven't been in school since April or doing anything nursing related. Its possible i'm just being a little hard on myself but, I really want to ace this interview and feel prepared for the job and be an awesome RN.

I don't know to much about acute rehab nursing other than what I googled. Is there any advice on how to prepare for the interview and job itself if I am hopefully offered a position. Anything in particular I should focus on?

Also, would anyone happen to know the average new grad salary for the job and area?

Any information about the actual hospital and/or unit (pros/cons) if known by anyone would be nice as well. Such as the new grad orientation process, mentorship programs, atmosphere, management, what this particular unit is like etc.? Any info or advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you for your time!

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

I've worked in acute rehab for the past 5+ years and have certification as a certified rehabilitation registered nurse (CRRN).

You are probably going to be asked why you want to work in rehab. I always respond that it feels good to see patients recover to their highest functional level.

Strokes (CVAs) are the number one cause of disability in the U.S. and the third leading cause of death. Hence, I conjecture most of your patients will be stroke patients. You may also see spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, amputees, and orthopedic cases such as hip and knee replacements.

You may also see medical cases since certain disease processes result in disability. Uncontrolled diabetes is common, as is undiagnosed HTN.

Good luck to you.

[lss2829]

Thanks for the response!

[llg, PhD, RN]

Do you have a BSN? If not, are you planning to go back to school for one soon? I think they prefer BSN's at Bon Secours from what an administrator there told me not long ago. If you don't have a BSN, be prepared for that question.

[lss2829]

I have a Associate's & yes I will be getting my BSN and Master's regardless. They are aware of that and require it within 3 years. They already asked me in the screenings interview over the phone. Thank you though!