Preparing for RN grad jobs

[Tristar]

Hello,

I have just recently moved to Los Angeles hoping for a bigger pool of RN grad jobs, but no such luck. Most positions won't open till sometime next year, so I am thinking to start applying for unit secretary and nursing assisting positions. Is that a good idea?

Also, wondering if anyone has any suggestions as to the best way to prepare for the exams some hospitals give when applying.

Thanks,

Tristar

[vicky3269]

I think this is a terrific idea, because even when hospitals do start hiring new grads again, the number of candidates applying is going to be horrific, and this way if you are working on a floor already and doing a great job, they will most likely hire you first. I got lucky and got hired as a new grad a few weeks ago, and they had me spend six hours at the nurses station yesterday working with the ward clerk. Let me tell you, I learned so much! And I think that is a quick way to impress your fellow co-workers, as long as you are organized and can multi-task because that position requires great multi-tasking skills!

As far as test-taking, I am having to take written competency tests (that I can take home and do at my convenience), but so far I haven't seen anything that I thought I would have needed to prepare for.

Good luck!

Vicky

[NurseCubanitaRN2b, BSN, RN]

Actually, I would advise against it! I know of current RN's who tried applying for a unit secretary position at work. None of them were even considered. They weren't even called for an interview. Why? The director knew what they were doing, as soon as a new grad position opens up, these RN's would vacate the position once given the opportunity to. It costs money to train unit assistants and other allied health care positions, so hiring a new grad RN wasn't going to work. That's why I strongly suggest get into the hospital before you graduate from nursing school. Even if it's just a PRN job, at least you're already in.

Actually competencies are different compared to the exam you must take once you get hired at the hospital. Most likely what you'll be taking is a dosage calculation test for medications and IV's. I had to take one for the hospitals we went to before we were allowed on the floor during clinicals. The exam wasn't hard, but brush up on those skills. Good Luck

[aleena23]

im too dont know howw to start bec. i graduated from foreign country,and just passed the nclex rn exam, i dont know how to start and where?