Stuck Between a Rock and a Hard Place

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Dear Nurse Beth,

I'm currently between a rock and a hard place. I graduated in December 2019 with my BSN and got a job at my university hospital on a gyn/onc and postpartum unit in March 2020. Unfortunately, it took a huge toll on my health, leading to burnout and leaving at 7 months. Since then I've gotten help and have moved back to my home state to look for a new job. However, it's been a struggle.

Along with treating my health concerns, my family and I moved to a new house with a process that took much longer than I thought. Because of the move, I didn't have a solid address to put on my license app but still tried to apply for a few jobs in April. Even with the license, I still haven't heard back from anywhere for an interview. I've revised my resume to tailor to the positions I've applied to and market myself, gotten in touch with one recruiter and looked into a nurse refresher course with no luck.

I know for a fact my employment gap is hurting my chances, but I don't know how to get anymore more experience if nowhere will hire me.. I'm considering looking at clinics but I'm concerned I may not be able to get back to bedside. Is there any way to be closer to getting a job? Thanks, Stuck

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2 Answers

Specializes in Tele, ICU, Staff Development.

Dear Stuck,

From an employer's point of view, you have less than 1 year's experience, which means you lack experience, but at the same, you no longer have new grad status, which could afford you a residency position. Added to that, you have more than a one-year gap in employment which means you've been unemployed longer than you've been employed.

From your point of view, you're wondering how to rectify this and gain experience when you can't get hired.

Employers may question how committed you are to a nursing career. It's a challenge, but you can prove them wrong and get your employment history on track. 

Activate your network, and let everyone you know that you are looking for a job. Go back as far as your school classmates, find out where they are working, and ask if they know of any possible openings.

Consider relocation if necessary. Rural areas are often less competitive. You can move back to your hometown or closer to your family once you've worked 1-2 years and are marketable.

When asked about your gap in employment, say that you had health issues but that they are completely resolved now.

Lower your expectations and broaden your job search. Instead of just acute care, look into dialysis and sub-acute, including skilled nursing. You are searching for an entry-level job, a stepping stone to better jobs in the future.

You can do this! Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

This was so helpful as I am in the same boat. Thank you!

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