Really discouraged

[Sponsor8]

Hello-

I'm a new graduate LPN who just passed the board exam on 8/8/09. I began my job search on the day I got my results, and have given it a 150% effort - with few real prospects to show for it. My mind is spinning - what should I do? Should I work as a CNA so at least I have some experience and don't lose my connection to the health care field?

All the jobs in my area - and I'm willing to travel an hour or more - require one year of experience. I've spoken with recruiters and the hiring authorities in facilities, and they won't budge on this!

I know it's only been a few weeks, but after working SO hard in school and to prepare and pass the NCLEX exam, I'm feeling like it was all for nothing.

• Would it be wise to work as a CNA while I wait, or will that look strange if I'm a licensed nurse?
  
• Should I take some time off and recharge as I wait for an opportunity - luckily, my husband can support me as I do this.
  
• How do I keep the faith?
  

I was one of those who didn't work during school, because I was trying to put my full energy toward the intensive, ten month program. My classmates who did some work are now working as nurses because they had the "in" already. Ok, lesson learned! But now what can I do?

This all looks like whining, and I apologize for that. I would appreciate any thoughts people have....I'm all ears!

[roser13, ASN, RN]

I say keep plugging away - it's not even been a month yet. Yes, I know it seems longer! Continue to follow up with the positions that you've applied for. Network with your classmates who are currently employed - they can be a good source of positions that are about to open and hopefully put a good word in for you as well with the manager.

One of my best positions ever came about as a result of a resume that I had sent over a year previously.

[tishirajan]

Personally, I would take a job as a CNA until I had the experience that would be required of me to obtain the job I was looking for. I know that would be a big difference in the pay but it would be more than if you're not making anything at this time.

As a CNA you will get a feel for things and the experience will be worth it IMHO.

Take a CNA job and keep looking for that LPN position. Something might open up for you before that required year is up.

Best of luck to you!

Tish

[bill4745, RN]

The CNA job may give you an "in" at that facility when an LPN position is available.

[Ginger's Mom, MSN, RN]

First of all are you applying in person, with a resume in hand and dressed professionally. Calling does not count.

Are you applying to hospitals only ? You need to go to SNFs? How about clinics ?

Best of luck, few weeks during vacation time does not give a good time for job hunting. You will find something.

[Jules A, MSN]

hi,

your post is one of the least whiny posts i've read on this subject! :) i'm sure it is frustrating but definitely keep trying and as medsurg32rn wrote try to get some face time. if there was a particular unit where you shined during clinicals, call that nurse manager and ask for a job. keep in touch with fellow students in case they hear of openings on their units. in my area lpns are used in psych nursing as well as ltc, adult day care centers and doctor's offices. you will find something so just keep plugging along. good luck.

[npoprn]

Your situation is simular to mine. I was licensed in 2006 as an LPN. I worked parttime at a three doc office while I worked fulltime at finishing my RN. Now I've got 3 yrs LPN exp. and an RN license, BUT there are no jobs, preceptorships or externships available (all filled). I am reapplying to all in December, but in the meanwhile, I am back at school finishing my BSN.

If you really need to work, try your local docs offices and tell them you are willing to work PRN during heavy flu shot days. Give them a professional resume and of course look sharp. I'll bet you get a bite and you'll make a good reference.

I know its frustrating, but it helped me to be proactive and look towards the next level instead of just waiting. The economy is not the best right now, and the healthcare reform has even the nurses with jobs worried.

You are intelligent, hardworking and caring. Those three qualities will take you a long way.

[LAVINIALPN]

Hello all. I say to you keep trying!! But if a job as a cna is availiable than go for it. I was a cna for nearly 14 yrs now i am an lpn. And i give a lot of credit for my yrs doing cna work to the knowledge i have now. I strongly believe every nurse needs to know where it starts from. Being a cna you get a feel for the needs of the patient, differant types of behaviors, situations all in a differant light than a nurse ever will. Keep trying for your nurse position i wish you lots of luck. Are there any agencies in your area that will hire a new grad?

[Kylea]

I think working as a CNA with your LPN is the same as working as a CNA with your RN in regards to licensure; once you have your license you cannot work as a CNA because your scope of practice is now different. Check with your board of nursing to find out for sure.

[tkk0406]

Get your foot in the door as a cna!!!

[LucasRN]

Check into life insurance physicals. It will give you experience dealing with people, practicing vitals and a steady paycheck.

[ToBANurse2010]

I agree with kylea, working as a cna is different than working as a nurse. U have to check with your state board of nursing before you can work as a cna with a nurse licinse. Im a RN student and currently Im working as a HHA @ an assisted living center. Well when I'm done with school I'm not going to work as a HHA. I want to work as a nurse. Because as a nurse you will do things a lot different and you have to perform you work within your scope of practice. :twocents: