where to start working as a new nurse.....

[O'NanRn]

I gradutated recently and like so many could not find a job for the life of me. I ended up just going to a LTC facility but its not really where i wanted to be. I figured at least its something to get some experience. Now that i have been there for about only weeks I get 2 phone calls for interviews. One is for ER and another is Postpartum. Now i dont know what to do. I went to both just to see how it goes. I dont want to be unfair to where I am now by quitting so soon but I dont know if i can turn down a better opportunity. I have always wanted to be an OB nurse, its why i got into nursing, so the postpartum seemed great. But as far as long term goals I really want a unit that does all things maternity.. not just the PP. The ER looks awesome though too.. they are not connected to a hospital so the nurses do a little of everything. They also pay for many certs like ACLS, PALS, trauma etc. It would be a great experience before jumping into my specialty. I just dont know where to go. I feel so blessed to possibly have all these options and at the same time stressed!!! Any advice would be so appreciated!!

[ACute RN]

As for your love of OB... getting your foot in the door by working PP is probably a very smart move. Although OB is not my area, I do keep tabs on job postings and ads - many L & D positions prefer previous OB experience (including PP/nursery). I know the hospital where I did my maternity clinical in nursing school required all L & D and nursery RN's to have experience in PP for at least 2 years before cross-training. I do have a good friend that works in the "OB float pool" at a teaching OB/women's health hospital - she worked there for 3 years in the antepartum unit and now floats to ante/L & D/PP/nursery.

As for your LTC job... explain your situation to them. Yes, they are probably going to be upset, but it is your career not theirs. Offer, if you want, to stay per diem - you can pick up some extra $$$ and you will have a safety net in case things don't go well.

[chevyv, BSN, RN]

Go for the position you want. I'm sure your not the first ltc nurse to find a better position. Go for it!!

[janice_c67, BSN, RN]

as hard as it is to get into a hospital, I would take either PP or ER in a heartbeat. If you don't you may really regret it in the long run because who knows how long until another opportunity comes up

[O'NanRn]

Thanks for the advice everyone! I am definately going to take one if offered. I heard back from the PP and they want me to come in today for a second interview. I have no clue what they will ask because they covered all of the basic interview questions the first time. I'm super excited to be asked back though!!