aea_11

I would completely disgree. Being a nurse is providing holistic, and patient centered care. Providing care is not just administering medications, hanging ivs, but also it means to turn them, assisting them to the bathroom, etc. NOT all hospitals have CNAs. and if you are a nurse, and you think getting your hands dirty is beyond your scope, think again, because you cant always delegate tasks to the CNA, how are you supposed to assess their bodily fluids or skin if you aren't the ones changing them atleast once on your shift. That's why I believe its an asset to become a CNA prior to getting your license, it truly shows someone's ability to care for the patient.. even if it may seem "dirty". Because someone has to do it. Furthermore, Nurse directors and nurse managers want a new grad who is the "whole package". I have gone to 3 interviews and each have asked me my experience in the hospital setting besides clinicals. They want someone who can balance both school and work, this shows commitment and someone who can multitask, prioritize and organize. Being a CNA or a healthcare worker proves you went above and beyond-- and provides some sort of experience. As a CNA you are interacting with patients, improving communication skills, as well as being team player. Most importantly, it shows you can work independently, unlike in clinicals where you are supervised by your clinical instructor or another nurse.

Honestly, the longer you hold out for your "dream job", the more you lose your new grad status. Right now the economy is tough, and getting into your specialty of choice is difficult. I say, apply everywhere and anywhere, and once you gain experience, then you can apply and move into the unit of choice, and get the "dream" job.

I finished my BSN program last year, and I can say nursing school is grueling. It's emotionally and physically demanding. You will be studying for hours and hours, sometimes by yourself, and sometimes in study groups. But through the 4 years at my university, I would change nothing about it. Although at times it seemed like too much knowledge to consume, it so rewarding! Each clinical day I had, I learned something new.. I made connections with my patients, with my professors, and with my classmates. I have lasting mentors and friends to this day. When you come out and graduate, you will realize that nursing school has evolved you to be a more knowledgeable and compassionate person. Not to mention you will definitely be a great critical thinker! :) GOOD LUCK! Nursing school isn't really that bad, it's definitely what you make out of it! So make it a fun one.

Begin calling hospitals in your vicinity now. Call HR, and suggest your interest in their hospital, the date of your graduation, expected NCLEX date and ask about their hiring process. As well as when to apply--do they accept interim permits, or strictly a license, or if you can apply once you graduate? I think it varies from hospital to hospital, so knowing the hospital's hiring process is key! As well as calling early on, shows you are genuinely interested in their facility! :) GOOD LUCK.

Network. Network Network. For instance, I renewed my BLS certification and introduced myself to people, first making small talk, then asked what profession they were in etc. One kind nurse told me they were not hiring on their unit, but told me I should go in while she was working so she could introduce me to her manager. I ended up meeting with the manager, gave her my resume to keep on file to when position would become available. Countless times I was able to network in situations where you would least expect, receiving business cards and their emails. Advice, if you are currently in your clinical rotations, introduce yourself to the nurse manager. Exchange emails, and suggest your interest in the unit. And continue to keep in contact with the manager beyond that clinical rotation.

California, $38.00/hr days, new grad on med-surge unit +4.00/hr night differential

One of the key things of obtaining a job is NETWORKING. Reach out to your contact, tell them about your situation, when you graduated, as well as the unit you wish to work in and your goals. Possibly set up a meeting with her if she has time, so you can give her your resume as well as put a face to your name. This contact must have a direct link with hiring, so you may not at this point in time be accepted for new grad position, but she may remember you in the future for future considerations..

I have gone to 3 interviews. And in each interview they have told me either the day they would call me regarding my acceptance or decline, or the time frame (2 weeks-3weeks). So I think within 2 days of your interview, it's appropriate for you to call back the director, manager or whoever interviewed you inquiring approximately the timeframe in which you should be hearing from them. BTW GOOD LUCK!

I think it would be in your best benefit to interview the second time in the LTC facility. Because more often than not, they will call you in a day or two to offer you a position. This will not only allow you to gain more interview experience to your ideal job in neuro/peds unit, but also can be your default job if for some reason you don't get the offer from the neuro/peds unit!

i heard that even if you submit two pages, most managers and/or HR will only look at the first page--so my advice, but sure to put your best information on the first page!

Work experience goes beyond the hospital. ANY work history is sufficient.. because whether you worked in a retail store or elsewhere, each position requires some sort of initiative, customer service, teamwork, organizational/prioritization skills etc--so cater your past work history to the nursing profession, even though it may not relate directly.. all jobs enhance positive working skills further more, if you don't have any work history... just expand on your clinical experience.....HIGHLIGHT accomplishments during those rotations. have you ever been in a code situation, what did you do...? have you ever presented an inservice for nurses? for things that you did, as well as things that you went above and beyond. mention it! this is your time to describe and emphasize your work ethic and critical thinking skills-

I recently got hired as a med-surge nurse! I too am a new grad! I am quite nervous as well. But reading your post.. It's good to know I am not alone, in being scared nervous Anyway, good luck with your orientation!!! I know I'm a new grad too. but my last clinical I had a preceptorship on a med-surge floor, and also had an externship..and the main thing to remember is.. ASK QUESTIONS. don't be afraid to speak up. And if you are uncomfortable with a situation or need more help with something, be sure to voice it to your preceptor or another nurse on the floor. :) you are new.. so nobody expects you to know everything. the first couple months are crucial... so asking questions and understanding the protocols, are important!

The transition from nursing student to competent nurse takes time. DO not get frustrated. You have gone this far-- successfully completing nursing school, pasing nclex, and receiving your job. Kuddos to you. If you feel overwhelmed, then I think all you have to do is talk to your preceptor and/or manager about your concerns. If it's patient load, I would suggest you go down to 4 patients, if you are currently caring for 5. Less stress on you, in which then you can successfully accomplish all tasks and interventions that are needed to be done for your patients. Once you feel confident in your current patient load, then you can add on more patients. But only until you can successfully handle total care. YOU CAN DO IT! I know you can! It takes time to feel confident in your skills and develop a strategy to conquer the day. However, once you find out a method that works for you.. you will be less stressed. It really does take time!

As a nursing student I had an internship in IP. And I have to say, being an IP nurse is rewarding and a learning experience. APIC like previous posts is a great resource--also there will be an APIC conference later this year! Be sure to sign up for that! Be sure to understand hospitals policies/procedures of isolation precautions and understand possible sources of surgical site infections. You will review a micro line list everyday-- so refreshing in microbiology is important--understand organisms!!! You will be going through lists of microorganisms if a person is recently infected and may need to report through National Healthcare Safety Network as needed. Also, surveillance rounds are crucial, especially since transmission of infections can be easily transmitted through hands.. so stay vigilant and be creative when introducing frontline staff with new ideas to adhere to protocol! GOOD LUCK AS AN IP RN! You will love it!

winter_green, i'm curious.. rural as in the central valley area? or more like the high sierra area? I am a new grad, and am willing to relocate anywhere in california to gain experience.