Should I work while waiting for new grad program?

[Magicktricks]

Hi all,

I graduated back in December 2023 and just recently passed the NCLEX. So far I've applied to 3 new grad programs that are set to start in August and September. There's currently a lot of openings at skills nursing facility close to me that I'm considering applying for since I don't know if I'll even get accepted into those programs. There's also a hospital that's literally only 5 mins away but not sure if they hire new grads. I honestly just want to start working and get some experience. Any advice will be greatly appreciated!

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

Proceed with caution - will you still be eligible for the residency if you accept a nursing position? My previous employer did not accept applicants into residency if they'd worked even a single day in the RN role regardless of setting. Research first.