58 Posts
Here are a few suggestions that I could think of:
-Show her that you've applied/been accepted to a BSN program. Even if you don't have the BSN many hospitals will be satisfied if you are enrolled in a program.
-Tell her what journals you subscribe to. NURSING 2014 is an easy-to-read med-surg journal that I started reading while in nursing school.
-Join a professional association such as the Academy for Med-Surg Nurses
-Have the colleagues on the unit where you are volunteering to WRITE you a letter of recommendation/support. Hearing them praise you is one thing.. getting a written letter of support shows their committment to helping you join their team.
-Identify one/more skills that you have learned or perfected while volunteering on the unit.
-Report on any special projects you completed related to med-surg nursing from nursing school.
-Emphasize the fact that since you've been volunteering on the unit, you are familiar with the unit routines, staff, etc. which make it easier for training purposes. Also, if there is a nurse willing to be your preceptor, ask them to step up and speak out on your behalf.
I was in a similar situation as you. I have an ADN, but got my foot in the door as a patient care technician and made a good impression. The manager passed over BSN candidates for me and I am very grateful for it.
generalRN2008
164 Posts
I worked full time and online BSN completion program. It was not hard to do. It was a tough state school program too not a degree mill school. You can list sub acute skills as med surg skills. You do get copd MIs wounds and such right?