GRAD0507

Kim, I graduated from NVCC and they really do have a wonderful program. I've never heard that they have a 1-2 year waiting list though. To my knowledge they have a waiting list until classes start in September in case people decide not to go there they can substitute with someone from the waiting list, but once the school year starts that waiting list goes out the door and you have to reapply for the following year. I don't know much about Bridgeport Hospital so I couldn't tell you anything about them but I would definitely recommend NVCC.

Julie, another suggestion is ... are there any freestanding birth centers where you live? Most patients that go to these facilities to have their babies are low risk so get to see what the norm looks like and any experience you could get there would help. I totally agree with the fact that hospitals are a little "silly" with the fact that they want you to have experience but no one is very willing to give the experience so how in the world do you get it??

Elaine, that sounds like a part time job NOT a PRN job...... you're all right, those requirements sound very hefty for a per diem nurse.

I've done two rotations at Midstate and it is definitely a very nice hospital. The people that I know that work there speak well of it and appear to enjoy their jobs. Not quite sure what the rate of pay is but I would think it is competitive with the other area hospitals.

Congratulations on the job....... I've gotten very discouraged that no one in the med-surg world seems willing to give me a chance, so you are definitely an inspiration. My situation is a little bit different than your situation but possibly you're right, I just need to keep trying. Once again, congratulations and I hope all goes well with your new job!

Cute_Cabbage, I have had a similar problem. I have gone to interviews and then gotten turned down for jobs either because I don't have enough experience OR there is someone with more experience than I have. My question, if no one is willing to give you a chance, how in the world are you supposed to get that experience? I have looked at some ECF's but the pt/nurse ratio seems overwhelming to me, as a new grad.

Walda786, I totally agree with you.... I think administration would much rather save money than staff a floor with another nurse to provide a decent ratio. Definitely a self created shortage.