To work as a nurse assistant or not- Advice?

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Hi all,

I graduated in May with my ASN and passed my RN boards in June. I've been on the hunt for a job since March with no luck. I live in eastern PA near Philly, and the job market is tight for new grads. Time is ticking and I haven't been able to work because I moved and couldn't get a job lined up in time.

Money isn't so much the issue as I'm living with my parents and have savings, but I really need experience! I'm willing to work any job and any shift at this point. I worked as a caregiver through my first two years of school with a home care agency. As I said, I moved and had to leave the job.

Anyway, I've been seriously thinking of applying to some jobs as a nursing assistant or tech, just to get into a hospital. I feel like I've messed up my life choosing to work in home health instead of a hospital, because I have no "ins" at the hospitals near my home. My main problem is that every intern/externship wants BSN, while I still have another two years before I get that degree. (Yes, I've spoken to someone directly and they've said no.)

My main question is if that if working as a CNA/tech would be somewhat a "waste" of time or could put me in the right direction. My first concern is that they won't consider me because I'm overqualified, holding an RN license. My second is that I may miss an opportunity as an RN. With my luck I can see myself taking a job, then two weeks later finding a job as an actual RN and having to leave.

Sorry this was a novel, just want to get as much info in as possible. If anyone has advice on what to do, I'd love to hear what you have to say! I've tried homecare agencys, nursing homes, urgent care centers, clinic positions, even flu clinics in my area told me I have to have a year experience as a nurse... Like, really? Where do I get experience then? Lol.

Thanks in advance!

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I would focus your energy on RN positions. You may have to commute a bit in order to get experience. Reach out to recruiters. Reach out to your clinical instructors and see if they have any connections. One connection can go a long way.

I have experienced something similar myself. I understand your frustration and I wish you much luck in your job hunt.

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Specializes in Surgery.

I don't think CNA is a bad move to get in the door (that's what I did) but since you are an RN it may pose some legal hassle. Can you work as a CNA being an RN in your state? Contact the BON.

Also, if money isn't really an issue you may want to consider 'volunteering' for experience. This way you are able to put something down on your resume and they get an extra set of hands. I'd contact HR departments directly and ask to speak with a nursing recruiter.

Good luck!

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Specializes in ER, LTAC, Nephrology.

KEEP LOOKING for RN positions! Try hospice, long term care facilities, keep trying the home health, even contact nurse agencies. Getting a job at the hospital as a CNA might get your foot in the door, no guarantee, but you would also have to get your CNA certificate. It's a lot of work with little pay. Send out as many online apps as you can and someone will call you back.Even if the job descriptions lists "required 1 year experience", send it off anyway. Someone will take the bait. Someone will want to mold you.

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Since you say that money is not a problem, I would focus on looking for an RN position and if possible, start working toward a BSN. Better use of your time and energy at this point.

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Thanks everyone. I think I'm going to keep looking. I'm going back in August for my BSN, so I may pick up a part time job just to make money for gas and such. It's getting stressful because I'm applying to jobs 35+ miles/1 hour away which is a huge commute for someone still in school. Hopefully I hear about something soon!

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Just wanted to update- OMG I scored an interview!! This coming Friday, with a pediatric home care agency! I love kids so I can dig it! :)

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Just wanted to update- OMG I scored an interview!! This coming Friday, with a pediatric home care agency! I love kids so I can dig it! :)

Good luck!

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Specializes in NICU.

Good luck!!

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