Nursing shortage....really?

[Gumerk]

Hello,

I'm a SN headed into my 4th semester. I'm doing a Summer-externship at one of our local hospitals on the telemetry floor and it's great. The problem is the future. We have heard since day one that there is a nursing shortage, but a lot of us feel like were getting the run around when it comes to translating a SN job to a full time position after graduation. Is everyone feeling this? It is just here in MS? I have been busting my butt to work hard while in the externship, come prepared, learn quickly, and help everyone I can. Still, were getting the run around as SN's when it comes to getting hired after we pass boards. Thank you for any and all input. Should I be looking to relocate after graduation? I was planning on hanging around and getting my BSN, but now I'm unsure, and a little uneasy about our future as SN's :uhoh21:...Gum

[NurseLoveJoy88, ASN, RN]

I have to disagree, part of it is in your control - such as by you applying right now! It will take a minimum of a month from application date to hire date, and its likely to be a lot longer than that. Have you seen the unemployment numbers? It is a rough market right now and you are only shooting yourself in the foot by not aggressively job seeking right now. You can't sit around and wait for a job to fall into your lap. Take control and put yourself out there immediately, don't wait. Also, take control of your finances right now if you haven't already, just in case you aren't able to get that job you are hoping for in the time frame you are hoping for. Have a backup plan too because you never know what will happen. I think it is beneficial to have a bit of anxiety as it will be a motivator to work hard in these tough times.

I'm sorry that I'm not having anxiety like everyone else. Obiviously, a job is not going to fall in my lap. I'm just saying that I want to take one step at a time. I don't see the point in applying for jobs now when I haven't even sent off my app. for the nclex, heck I haven't even gotten through my last course yet. I just want things done in order. Most of the jobs I see avail. in my area expects for the new grad to already have past the boards. So no, I'm not going to stress about finding a job right now. Honestly, I don't care what the unemployement numbers say, I don't let "numbers" determine my fate or destiny. It may not be easy for me to get a job right away but with perserverance it'll come. If you want to so be it, but I refuse to. I'll start applying when I feel ready.

[Gumerk]

Thx for all the input yall. Well, today I talked with my nurse manager, and I feel a bit better about things. They said there is not a lot of spots left for stundent nurses, BUT....the nurses I've been working with have really put in a good word for me, and managment has heard a lot of good things about me! I was happy to hear that, and really appreciate the nurses voicing their support. It was quite a surprise and unexpected, but a pleasent surprise to say the least. Managment said they would be getting back with me in about 2 weeks. It's not a guarantee, but it's more than I had, lol. The experience and paycheck will be great while in fourth semester, and they always hire from their student pool anyways, so things could be looking up in a couple of weeks. I'm doing an externship at the moment, and it's the best job I've ever had. I actually look forward to going to work everyday, and am learning sooooo much from the RN's, LPN's, CNA's, and just everyone there. It's great. If anyone ever gets a chance to do an externship while in school, please do it! The experience is priceless. Good luck and blessings to all in these tuff times, and give it all ya got! Gum

[DolceVita, ADN, BSN, RN]

I not worried at all about finding a job as a new grad. Pinning ceremony is in 3 weeks, I plan to take nclex as soon as they let me, and I plan to start my job hunting after nursing school. Everyone is so stressed about finding a job but i'm a firm believer that the right job will come at the right time. Its called patience ! I may or may not get a job right away but am I worried... no I'm not. I refuse to worry about things that are out of my control. I can't hire my self. The only thing I can do is put my self out there and try my best and leave the rest to God. What God has for me it is for me... no matter what the circumstances may be. Good luck and I'll keep you all posted on my job hunting.

What a great attitude. Congrats on completion.

Then you can add RN to your handle!!!!!

[guest64485]

I'm sorry that I'm not having anxiety like everyone else. Obiviously, a job is not going to fall in my lap. I'm just saying that I want to take one step at a time. I don't see the point in applying for jobs now when I haven't even sent off my app. for the nclex, heck I haven't even gotten through my last course yet. I just want things done in order. Most of the jobs I see avail. in my area expects for the new grad to already have past the boards. So no, I'm not going to stress about finding a job right now. Honestly, I don't care what the unemployement numbers say, I don't let "numbers" determine my fate or destiny. It may not be easy for me to get a job right away but with perserverance it'll come. If you want to so be it, but I refuse to. I'll start applying when I feel ready.

Of course it is up to you what you do; I'm just trying to help you. Most of my class had a job lined up 2 months before we graduated (when the job market was better). It is a rough job market out there right now; its important to understand that, as many people are losing their homes. There is a lot of misinformation that RN jobs are easy as pie to get and I'm just trying to ensure you aren't falling into that trap. There are a lot of posts about people who have been searching for a job and its been 6+ months now, and they have no savings left, and their family is suffering. Of course you don't need to take my advice to start applying now. I sincerely hope things work out for you.