Searching for first RN job question!

[s1992]

Hey all! I'm so happy to be posting in this side of the site now that I passed my NCLEX! Anyway, I've started searching jobs and this is currently what I've found that requires no experience at all.

1. Physical rehabilitation center RN-Night shift

2. Pain management clinic RN-day shift

Im actually very interested in the Rehab position but I'm not really sure what encompasses the pain management position perhaps I'm doing pain assessments all day and giving out narcs? Does anyone have any experience in these 2 jobs that could offer some advice?

Also, ideally I would like to work Med-Surg but everywhere asks for at least 1 year experience if not more. Since I'm a new grad I don't have that experience. Should I apply anyway? Idk how that looks.

Thanks everyone I'm excited to start my career!

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

The rehab position will be very physical on your body due to the patient population of s/p CVAs, TBIs, and SCIs who are dead weight and require total assistance with lifting. It's rewarding, but mentally and physically difficult.

The pain clinic position will require virtually no direct patient care. You'll likely do intake interviews, blood draws, specimen collections and focused assessments while the physicians write triplicate prescriptions. Hopefully this isn't another 'pill mill.'

Good luck to you!

[s1992]

Thanks for your response! Do you really think that would be so taxing when it is the night shift though? I assume that all PT/OT etc would be done during the day. I've never had a night shift clinical so I'm not sure lol.

[Sunflowerinsc, ADN, RN]

Don't think that patients sleep all night. No matter what unit it is, they are sick ,need assistance , aren't at home and need help. Nursing care goes on .

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

Thanks for your response! Do you really think that would be so taxing when it is the night shift though? I assume that all PT/OT etc would be done during the day. I've never had a night shift clinical so I'm not sure lol.

I worked 12-hour night shifts in rehab for 5+ years. The first 5 hours are physical and grueling, then things become somewhat better once the clock strikes midnight.

[s1992]

No I don't assume that at all. But I just know that no appointments are going on at night right?

[Penelope_Pitstop, BSN, RN]

Apply everywhere. It can't hurt.

The pain management clinic requiring no experience sounds kinda fishy, to be honest. But I'd still apply. The worst that can happen is they tell you "no."

Wish you the best!

[s1992]

Thanks! This pain management clinic is apart of a huge health system in my area that crosses around 3 cities. It's a very well known name lol

[INN_777, BSN, RN]

Also, ideally I would like to work Med-Surg but everywhere asks for at least 1 year experience if not more. Since I'm a new grad I don't have that experience. Should I apply anyway? Idk how that looks.

Absolutely apply anyway!!! What's the worst that can happen? You won't hear back? Employers usually list desired qualifications, doesn't mean they always get that. Also doesn't mean they might not get interested in other aspects of your resume/experience. Just make sure you list any healthcare-related experience (even if not nursing), including your clinicals. Also customize the cover letter, explain why you are a fit for the position.

[Nurse Jen, RN]

If med/surg is your ultimate goal (or next step), the rehab position will be a better experience. Most acute care positions are going to say "experience preferred," but apply anyway. Med/surg is often a starting ground for many new nurses, and depending on the size of the unit and number of potential hires, hiring experienced nurses may not even be an option.

[s1992]

Thanks so much for the replies everyone! I'm excited to start!! The only reason why I ask this is because this health system which covers pretty much all hospitals around me, only allow you to apply to 5 positions in a 3 month period. Thanks!!