NEW GRAD PSYCH NURSE NEED ADVISEMENT

[JLOR]

I need some advice! I just started my career in an inpatient psych unit with only 4 months under my belt. I originally wanted to be in the ER or OR, but the new grad programs in California have been a struggle to get into. Fortunately, the hospital where I work was willing to hire me as a new grad, and it's the only reason I joined to gain some acute care experience. My biggest concern is that I will be stuck doing psych if I do end up completing my year's experience. I've talked to my supervisors about doing other units, but they advise me to stay for 6 months, and then try. But it's not always guaranteed that I will get into other units after I complete my 6 months, as it also depends on the other specialty units availibility.  I was also thinking if I don't get to transfer, to try to apply again in a year to the ER/OR, but unsure if they are willing to train me ( as a new nurse) being in psych.

[FullGlass, BSN, MSN, NP]

Please be patient.  You have only 4 months' experience on your first job as an RN.  Psych is very valuable experience.  So make the most of it and learn as much as you can.  There are patients with psych issues on all other units such as med-surg and especially in the ER, so this is great experience.  If more experienced RNs at the hospital are telling you to wait 6 months, then do so.  New grad RNs are not generally hired into the ER.  As for the OR, find out what hospitals in your area are looking for OR RNs.  Many hire new grads and provide extensive training, but not all hospitals.  It is going to be a lot easier for you to find another RN job in a different area once you have 1 year of experience.  Good luck.