New Grad - OK to start with PH with no clinical experience?

[caryt123]

Hello!

I just graduated with a BSN and am in the process of looking for a job. My last rotation in school was with a public health department and I absolutely loved it. I think I might be headed in the PH route as a career and would love to gain experience and eventually work internationally as well.

My question is should I have clinical, med/surg experience before I work in PH? I feel like having hands-on experience will make me a better PH nurse in the end. Is this true? I would really appreciate any feedback! Thank you!

[caryt123]

Wow. Thanks for all of the great advice and input! I went for my second interview today with the local PH department and am really hoping they offer me the job! I got a great feeling from the team and think it could be a good fit. If eventually I decide I want to work in a more acute care setting, I think I will be able to make it happen. It's scary when you first start out as a new grad, because you don't want to pigeon hole yourself in to a specialty without being able to make a change. I think nursing is so flexible that no matter where I start, I will be able to find a position that makes me happy and is fulfilling. At least, that's what I'm going to keep telling myself :)

[Cisl4him, RN]

Alright, this sounds like an amazing career path for me. I am in my 40's. I became a nurse at 42. I have had two bad nursing experiences, one in the hospital setting and one in long term care which has made me rethink my career path. What is the best way to find a job in the public health field? I will google tonight. I have a job interview in a doctors office this Wednesday. It is a large practice connected with a hospital network. I'd love to get this position, but PH sounds great too!

[Cisl4him, RN]

Me too, what have you found out so far?

[coughdrop.2.go, BSN, RN]

Alright, this sounds like an amazing career path for me. I am in my 40's. I became a nurse at 42. I have had two bad nursing experiences, one in the hospital setting and one in long term care which has made me rethink my career path. What is the best way to find a job in the public health field? I will google tonight. I have a job interview in a doctors office this Wednesday. It is a large practice connected with a hospital network. I'd love to get this position, but PH sounds great too!

Google your Public Health Department's in your State or area. Go to their HR page (either listed under the Public Health Dept. or the County's regular HR page) and look for job listings!

[Cisl4him, RN]

I googled public health jobs and came up with several substitute nurse jobs in my area. I have absolutely no experience in this field but I'm willing to give it a try. I will also try your suggestion, thank you!