wiseoleowl

I am a new graduate nurse as well and found myself drawn to geriatrics. I worked as a nurse's aide while in school in an Assisted Living facility and loved it. After graduation I got a job working in a skilled nursing setting with mainly geriatric patients. I really enjoy the work. It's rewarding as I feel that I not only take care of my patient but his/her family as well. I want them to know that I will treat their loved one like he/she was my mother, father, grandfather, grandmother, ect. That their loved one will become my loved one and I will do everything I can to make them as comfortable as possible. My recommendation, give it a try! Just remember, there are good things and bad things in every job you have.

I certainly understand your frustration. I waited what seemed to be a lifetime to go back to school. I am now a registered nurse and the application process has been very hard. Everyone seems to want experience but no one wants to help you get experience. It is frustrating but I will not be defeated! :) I have heard many of the same comments/advice about getting jobs, mostly "you need to move." They are probably right, as I am originally from Florida and the area in Virginia where I live is very depressed right now. I would love to stay in the mountains but I'm afraid I'll have to return to Florida so that I'll be able to practice nursing. Good luck to all new nursing grads. Keep your chin up and keep trying.