still a green RN and I have an interview

[melmarie23, MSN, RN]

Hi all! I am very excited to report that I have an interview for a per diem position at a local hospital's LDRP unit! I graduated in December and started working my first RN position (prn float between med/surg and acute rehab units) back in April. However, my passion has always been L&D/maternity and I did an externship in it while in school. Although L&D is where my heart is, I still plan on keeping my current per diem position as I am learning a ton and am also finding much value in those specalities as well. Plus, I need the hours.

My question for you all is just some general advice on how to rock this interview. I did take a CLC (certified lactation counselor) course last May and am still currently breastfeeding my son-so I am knowledgeable and passionate about nursing. While I did my externship in L&D last spring I also joined AWHONN and took NRP. I believe that the extra education and professional membership to the organization further demonstrates my passion and interest in the field. Also, I had my son med free, so I have personal experience there which will also help me in terms of attending and supporting women who desire this type of birth within the hospital setting. Additionally, during my externship I attended women who were primary c-sections, labor agumentation (pitocin, cytotec and cervadil) and who have had epidurals. I feel that I can talk easily to all of the above.

My biggest concern with this interview is my current job. How do I mention that I still plan on working there as well as this new position? What if they ask to contact my current employer (who I havent told that I was looking for another per diem position elsewhere). Will it look unfavorable that I plan on juggling the two per diem positions?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

[klone, MSN, RN]

I don't think I would mention your personal experiences with breastfeeding and your med-free birth (although I applaud you for both!). Instead, I would probably just highlight the fact that you took the CLC course and you have a experience and knowledge when it comes to assisting women with lactation, and that you support all choices in labor and have experience with how to offer labor support to moms who want to go med-free, as well as moms who have chosen medication.

I don't think it will look bad to either employer that you've got two PRN jobs. Many nurses I work with have a fulltime job and a PRN job somewhere else. It's just life. Bills gotta get paid.

Good luck on the interview!!

[bagladyrn, RN]

Turn your plan to continue with the other position into a strength in the interview. By continuing with it you are refining your general med surg assessment skills and gaining a good base of knowlege to help you with any patients.

It would be good to let the interviewer know that your long term goal is to eventually be a full time OB nurse and you would consider this position to be your priority.