Trying to keep my head up...

Hi,

I'm sure my story is similar to so many others... I am a newer unemployed nurse having an extremely difficult time finding a job.

I was working in a med-surg unit for about a year. I was feeling so physically and emotionally drained that I finally decided to give my notice and try to find a job in a different setting. I really want to work in either in a different department or out of the hospital all together. But I have found that most positions require prior experience in that area. How does one get that experience? Am I missing something?

I thought that with one year's experience I would be challenged to find work in a different setting but still able to find a job in med-surg if it came down to it. I haven't worked now for about 7 months. I am at a point where I feel intimidated to even step back into the hospital without some form of training to get me back into the groove of things. I apply to every and any position that I meet the minimum requirements for, but don't even get a phone call for an interview. Any advice??

Thanks so much for any insight