seaghost

Leaving a comment so I can save this thread.

I graduated in May 2013 I am currently applying for New York state licensure (from the Midwest). By the time everything is processed and I start applying I will have just over a year of acute care hospital experience (June is my one year mark) on a cardiac med-surg unit. I also frequently float to my sister unit a cardiac step-down and the ICU but am not vent trained. As far as I know I will have glowing reviews from managers and professional references I put down. I know the job market is VERY tough in NYC and some say impossible. However, most of the feedback I've seen on this particular forum is relating to new graduates with no experience. Anyone on here had any luck moving out of state and landing a position in the greater NYC area???? (I am open to nearby areas but don't want to venture TOO far by subway if I could help it, really the entire point of moving there is to be in the city or at least one of the boroughs). I'm just wondering if I should bide my time for another year - if 2 years would make that much of a difference or if anyone thinks I actually have a chance with 1 year. I have seen postings with that as a requirement, although I am going to start applying either way once my license goes through. I also understand open houses are a big part of applications around the area and I would potentially have to fly in for them, which I'm open to - but I would like to make some contacts beforehand if possible and maybe set myself to be sure to meet some nurse managers before I make such a financial investment.... I really am willing to do just about anything to get a job. I also understand traveling may be my best bet to "get my foot in the door" but most travel positions I've seen require 2 years experience.. I appreciate any feedback. I am very serious about this move and I would like to gauge the likelihood of a successful outcome. Thanks.

I don't know whether you have to be licensed to have ACLS but most of it is giving push medications and electricity for code situations that I would assume other hospital workers could not perform. I didn't feel like i was missing out not having it until I became an actual nurse. Stroke certification you may not have to be an RN. It believe you can just do it online and take a test and you get it - but I haven't done it yet.

Most of my certifications I could get for free through work. I have worked with my employer just over 6 months and have so far done BLS, ACLS and am planning on getting stroke certified next. Most new grads don't come out with a plethora of certs. And why pay for BLS when you can get it through your employer for free right? I guess if you're having trouble finding a job I'd say otherwise.

Geographic location: Southeastern Wisconsin Pay rate: $23.35 + $3 night differential In which area / specialty do you work? Cardiac-Medical What type of license do you have (RN or LPN)? RN What type of degree and/or certification do you have? BSN How many years of experience do you have? 0.50 Are you full-time, part-time, or casual / per diem / PRN status? Full Time What shift do you work? Nights 7-7 Do you receive any shift differential? $3 Are you a manager or supervisor? No.

I bet that many many more hospitals will start doing this in the future. And I am super glad mine wasn't one of them. D:

My cardiac unit is currently lacking experienced nurses bc we've had a mass exodus but it doesn't look like you did much floor nursing?

I am a new grad and definitely work with nurses that "should have done more" every shift. But I definitely wouldn't judge someone who had been off orientation for 4 days. I do however judge my classmate who started at the same time as me who always leaves me messes when I follow her. I get that days is busier than nights, but why is it I get left tons of crap from her and no one else ever. And I don't leave things for people on a regular basis - only if I get an admission later than 6AM.

I just recently started having suggestions for doctors and I've been working 5 months haha. You have to hear some before you can give 'em... yeah?

Interesting seeing the different responses on this. I think the best advice would be to call the doc next time. I would have held it for sure though.

Being defensive when someone gives you useful advice is not the best way to deal with criticism. I agree that you could work on your writing. Currently trying to imagine respecting someone in admin who believes typing in an intelligent and coherent manner is comparable to wearing a wedding dress to the corner store. Are we the corner store? Or are we your professional colleagues?

I've had this problem with CNAs not reporting vitals as well. ESPECIALLY new ones. What I try to do is just reinforce over and over why it's important without being a *****. For instance, last night I heard an excuse that my aid was "too busy" to call me about 68/40 - which we all know is ridiculous. I made sure he knew that no matter what he was doing - answering multiple call lights etc - it would be his #1 priority at all times to report a vital in that range to me - btw all he has to do is call me on my mobile phone it's not like he had to come find me, so poor excuse. The rest of the night he was very good about calling me right away after the criticism. I think sometimes CNAs have difficulty prioritizing their tasks - especially when they are new - which I understand - I'm only 4 months in myself. I just try to not be judgmental and rather reinforce what my priorities are - so maybe even if they don't learn themselves what the ranges are and understand- they know what I specifically expect as an individual. Also, I constantly call this particular CNA about vitals now - which is good about getting him in the habit of just calling me so he doesn't have to bother with getting my calls!

I just want to share my experience with you all. After this week I will be off orientation and officially on my own. I started work in early June on a Cardiac floor, orientating on days (5 pts) but actually hired for nights (6 pts). Over the past 2 months I have had HUGE downs and a good share of ups as well. It seemed like every shift I would have greater challenges and more things I knew nothing about. Several days I felt like crying, and one day I actually did. I was lucky enough to have a preceptor on days who was very emotionally supportive and the rest of my coworkers were as well so that helped build my confidence a great deal. There were times coming home from work when I thought I could not go back another day, but I pulled through. I cannot even believe the amount of confidence I have gained in these tumultuous 2 months and all I can say to those of you struggling is that it WILL get better. I still have my challenges (and being on nights helps with stress reduction), but I truly have started to feel like I have things more under control, and you will too, it just takes time. :) Keep plugging along guys!

I work nights and how I handle my 8 & 10 PM meds is I give them both at 9 (so med pass is 8:30-9:30) since I have an hour leway in each direction. That is as long as they can be safely given together. Saves tons of time and helps me get everyone's mostly on time instead of mostly late!

I just want you to know that those of us up to 4 patients at this time don't feel like we can handle it all. We are just as flustered as you are. I got put on 5 a few days ago for the first time and I was completely overwhelmed. It is NOT just you. My preceptor claims I am doing well and is very encouraging despite how flustered I feel, just remember it may be the way you are perceiving the situation moreso than you actually performing poorly. Or... that's what gets me through waking up and getting ready for another shift...