RN26kids

Thanks so much for all your comments everyone. I really appreciate all the help.

Everline, That's the funny thing about the type of people who become nurses... We seem to be highly motivated for the most part, so we don't want to become stagnant. Ever since I decided to become a nurse, I looked at the possibility of becoming a NP. It's just another goal to pursue, right? Like you, I go back and forth. I don't want to stop, but slowing down sounds really good right now.

CT Pixie, Yeah, if I don't get hired, then continuing with school would help me keep my mind off of the job search as well as help me to increase my skills.

SupranoKris, I think it's going to be hard no matter what I do. I guess I'll just have to play it by ear. Initially, I thought I would continue as soon as I could, but I'm really feeling burned out. Maybe just a break of one semester would be enough. CT Pixie, thanks for the fresh grad perspective. I hadn't really thought about the loans, because I figured that I would work and pay off the loans before going back to school. You do bring up a good point, though. If I continue, the interest won't be due either. I continue to look at programs and think about plans, but now I have more things to think about.

jojo489, I have not worked as an LPN, so I do feel that the learning how to be a nurse will be my big push during that time. I do think it would add more stress to be in class.

RN403, thanks for the advice. I can definitely see the advantage of not getting out of school mode.

Fox news also replayed the CDC video blaming the nurse for not following protocols.

I graduate with my ADN in December and I am really excited to get to work. In my area, a BSN isn't necessary to get hired at the local hospital, so I don't have to get my BSN right away, but I know that it's important. Is it ok for me to wait a year or two and get some experience under my belt before going on for an online BSN? I already have a lot of the prerequisites, but I'm so sick of school that I would like some time just to adjust to being a nurse. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!

Thanks for your replies! iPink RN, I have spoken to my preceptor and she is very aware of my intentions. She has been so great, too. She is showing me all she can to help me be ready to be hired. After almost 6 shifts, I am so happy in this area of nursing, I guess I just want to do my best to get my foot in the door. RunBabyRN (Awesome name btw) you bring up some great ideas with the certifications. Thanks for the hint! The manager isn't around much, but I did get the chance to meet her when some higher-ups were taking a tour and they stopped to speak to me and my preceptor. It was a great chance to be seen. I am also on friendly terms with all the nurses I have come in contact with. They have all been supportive and helpful. I have made every effort to be a part of the team so that if they have a position available, I will be on their list of desired candidates. Thanks again!

I always had a feeling that I wanted to pursue work in OB, but now I have absolutely fallen in love! I have worked 28 hours in OB and I feel so happy every time I go. My nurse is absolutely great and has been teaching me so much. What can I do to improve my chances for being hired after I graduate and pass my boards?