bleu216RN

Well I hadn't looked into it yet she had just told me that. I did some research and the only certifications that I can find that med surg do say you need to have 2+years of experience. So I don't know what she was talking about. I just know she told me I couldn't get the job at this time and that this certification would help me get the job at a later date. Thanks for the info! The job market is very tough. I have applied easily to 300-400 jobs (lost count) over the past year and have recently broadened my search from just Colorado to the whole USA and get the same response. Not qualified, not enough experience. I'd say get a job in rehab or LTAC (long term acute care) would be the best bet for anyone who can't find something. At least its some experience.

Sounds like you have gotten a lot of good experience as a new grad in a rehab unit. I work in rehab also but it is very different and we can't do so many things that you listed because the rehab unit I work in is based in a nursing home. I also got two days of orientation and was then left on my own to care for many patients. If something happens to one of our patients we send them to the hospital.

How did you find out the name of the manager or how did you get in contact with the nurse manager on the floor? I have tried to do this but don't know where to start.

I just spoke with a nurse manager who gave me some advise. She stated that you should join nursing organizations such as Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses (AMSN) and/or get certified in the area that interests you. For the most part it seems to cost money and looks good on your resume.