New grads in Hampton, VA

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Hello all,

I am currently in Nursing school and graduate in May 09. Looking to move to Hampton, VA.

Can anyone please share with me any knowlege on

1. which hospitals/medical centers are new grad friendly

2. pay rate for new grads

3. training for critical care

4. Cost of living in Hampton

Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.:wink2:

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Starr84,

While I don't actually live in Hampton per se I live in Suffolk, Va. which is only 15mins away. Most of the hospitals around here are new grad friendly, perhaps with the exception of Portsmouth Naval Hospital which wants you to have at least a years experience under your belt. The biggest hospitals around this area are Sentara (which I work for) and Bon Secours. The going rate for new grads is roughly 19.50 per hr and yes alot of the hospitals do hire new grads into critical care areas. I started out in an Intermediate Stepdown cardiac unit straight out of nursing school.

As for the cost of living around here I think it's fine. Assuming that one doesn't try to live above their means you can have a nice home and enjoy lots of recreational activities without breaking the bank. I have lived here with my military husband and children for four years and I consider us to be truly blessed as we have a wonderful home, great friends and lots to do on the weekends!

Hope this helps!!

Candy

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Starr84,

While I don't actually live in Hampton per se I live in Suffolk, Va. which is only 15mins away. Most of the hospitals around here are new grad friendly, perhaps with the exception of Portsmouth Naval Hospital which wants you to have at least a years experience under your belt. The biggest hospitals around this area are Sentara (which I work for) and Bon Secours. The going rate for new grads is roughly 19.50 per hr and yes alot of the hospitals do hire new grads into critical care areas. I started out in an Intermediate Stepdown cardiac unit straight out of nursing school.

As for the cost of living around here I think it's fine. Assuming that one doesn't try to live above their means you can have a nice home and enjoy lots of recreational activities without breaking the bank. I have lived here with my military husband and children for four years and I consider us to be truly blessed as we have a wonderful home, great friends and lots to do on the weekends!

Hope this helps!!

Candy

Thanks CandyG18 for the prompt response. I have a couple more questions if you don't mind. Can you also tell me a bit about

1. Nurse-patient ratio? What was your interview like?

2. Are there any special requirements needed to enter the critical care areas?

Lastly, what advice would you give to any new grad interested in applying to Bon Secours and Sentara?

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