After graduating in May and not taking my boards until August, I feel like I waited too long and all the jobs were snatched up. I have worked in an LTC facility as a CNA for almost two years now, and really did not want to work there as an RN after graduation. However, after applying for countless jobs and only getting a few interviews (hearing nothing back from any of them), I took a job, in fear that if I waited too much longer I wouldn't ever find a nursing job.
I took the job as of yesterday. Today, I got a phone call from a local hospital requesting an interview. I was caught off guard, having applied for this position long ago, but accepted the invitation to interview.
My question is - although this could be a long shot, what happens if I get offered this position? Is it wrong for me to leave my current position (that I start training for tomorrow) in order to pursue a position that would better fit my career goals? I understand it could burn a bridge, but I doubt I would ever go back to the LTC facility after starting a career in a hospital. ANY SUGGESTIONS??
I would say continue w/your LTC job until after you have interviewed AND have been offered the position. I would just let them (the hospital) know that you would require enough time to give notice at your current position if and when the hospital hires you. Definitely would not let LTC know until your hospital position is a "sure thing," though, just to be on the safe side.
Being on good terms w/previous employers is always good protocol, as you will never have to worry about using them as a reference in the future if you left on good terms.
A similar situation happened to me. I did the right thing and continued to the job I accepted first. Was miserable and I regret it. I would have been better off risking the bridge burning. The one difference is neither job was my first job out of nursing and I had a backup to fall back on if both failed so less risk for me but I should have taken it
maelstrom143
398 Posts
I would say continue w/your LTC job until after you have interviewed AND have been offered the position. I would just let them (the hospital) know that you would require enough time to give notice at your current position if and when the hospital hires you. Definitely would not let LTC know until your hospital position is a "sure thing," though, just to be on the safe side.
Being on good terms w/previous employers is always good protocol, as you will never have to worry about using them as a reference in the future if you left on good terms.