Not a new grad, but not a experienced nurse either

[gikg]

Hi, I have been a nurse for two years, however, I found my first employment as a subacute nurse in a SNF facility in San Diego. I worked there for 1.5 years until I finished by RN-BSN program and was able to land an acute care job. I have been working in this hospital for 3 months now and I don't like much. Mostly is the pay, which is very low, they pay me the same I was getting at SNF. For a hospital it is pretty bad. Their turn over is huge as all the new grads leave after getting their experience. And unfortunately, that is exactly what I want to do. They are always short staffed, specially on the CNAs, so I end up having to do everything for my patient. It is not that I mind doing it, but being so busy on a tele floor it takes away from other things that only an RN can do.

The problem that I am having now is that I need more money and was looking for a pier diem job. Something that I could do once a week to increase my income. However, I was trying to get a job that would benefit me in getting into the Magnet hospitals in the area that I really want to work for. Any suggestions?

I thought in applying to registries, but since I only have 3 months of acute care experience I think they will not accept me. All I have seen is a minimum of 1 yr.

At this point I would take anything that would be enjoyable and bring some income.

Thanks!

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

Gosh, I feel your pain. In my experience, employers will NEVER pay more than they have to. So, if the SNFs are paying high salaries, it's because that is what it takes to attract and maintain qualified staff. OTOH, if nurses are beating a path to the hospital's door, they don't have to pay very well. I know of an internationally known Trauma Center in my town that is notorious for their low salaries... because nurses know that it's impressive to have that particular employer on their resume -LOL. So, don't expect Magnet facilities to pay more simply because of their status.. in fact, they may pay less - because they can.

This advice may sound squirrely, especially since you have already said how much you dislike your current employer... but here goes.. If you want to distinguish your application for a better chance at a job in a Magnet facility, you need to have some 'above and beyond' job experience on your resume. Volunteer for 'extra' things like committee and task force work. Magnet facilities are all about professionalism and shared governance. This will show that you are a good fit because you have a professional approach to your work rather than a blue-collar attitude.

Hang in there - it will get better.