Not having experience is killing my chances!!!

llg, PhD, RN · Jul 4, 2006

What type of job are you looking for?

From your post, I take it that you are an LPN. Have you researched the job market for LPN's in your region? There are more jobs available for LPN's in some regions than in others.

Finally ... remember that very few people find their ideal job right away. In most careers, a person "works up" to the position of their dreams. They don't start right out with it. If you can find a decent job, take it and get the experience that will help you get a better job in the future.

Good luck,

llg

klaney_13 · Jul 4, 2006

Hey, thanks for your reply. I have done my research and it has lead me to this conclusion: LVNs in Austin are hard at work in LTC. I live in an area right outside of Austin and before the hospital here was bought out by one of the major networks in Austin, they hired LVNs. I missed the window of opportunity I guess. Don't get me wrong though, even though I knew the major networks weren't hiring, I still put myself out there and submitted applications and resumes, unfortunately to no avail. LTC is where the opportunities are so I've applied and sucked it up. It should only be for a year because I am planning to bridge, I just wasn't expecting to be forced into LTC. I'll make the best of it and take away whatever I can from any experience, but I'll look forward to that someday phone call inviting me to interview at one of the acute care facilities in the area.

EricJRN, MSN, RN · Jul 4, 2006

How about outpatient clinics? Might not be where the most money is, but if you're really having a hard time with the idea of LTC, you might see what kind of luck you have with office nursing.

klaney_13 · Jul 4, 2006

Well, I've given a lot of consideration to many things I hadn't necessarily considered in the past. I've been given the opportunity to work with MR patients, LTC, and rehab, with some experience in acute care MR and I think I'm going to try it all. Do you think PT or PRN work as a new nurse is advisable? I pick things up very quickly, I've got got great time management skills, and never struggled in the clinical setting while in school. I have some apprehension due to being brand new to the profession, but like I said I pick things up without difficulty.

I'm ready to get my feet wet!!!

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Jul 4, 2006

I am a new LVN in Fort Worth who has never had problems finding work. I do weekend doubles at a nursing home and work PRN during the week at a psychiatric hospital.

sjt9721, BSN, RN · Jul 4, 2006

The 'Care Now' urgent care clinics advertise that they "welcome" new grad RNs & LVNs. I'm not sure how much the salary is, but they do seem to have a complete list of benefits.

(this is in DFW...I don't know where else they are!)

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Jul 4, 2006

The 'Care Now' urgent care clinics advertise that they "welcome" new grad RNs & LVNs. I'm not sure how much the salary is, but they do seem to have a complete list of benefits.
(this is in DFW...I don't know where else they are!)

Beware. The CareNow clinics start LVNs at a whopping salary of $12.75 hourly. Sorry, but that is a very unattractive pay rate in my opinion.

klaney_13 · Jul 5, 2006

Going pay rates for new LVNs in LTC in this area is about 18-23 per hour. Not too shabby. I have an interview tomorrow at a facility where I live, so I'm hoping for the best. I just wish I could find a place where I could work night weekends, or the Baylor shift. No such luck yet, just 2-10. Beggars can't be choosers I suppose. :)