What does UCI look for in New Grad RNs?

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Sep 12, 2014

What should I be doing to enhance my chances at landing a RN position?

If you're referring to UC Irvine, you need to differentiate yourself apart from the 2,500 other new grad RNs across southern California who are submitting applications there.

Do you have ACLS certification? PALS certification? BLS certification? If not, obtain all three certifications promptly.

Also, are you applying to positions outside the exalted acute care hospital setting? Be cognizant that the hospital HR departments in southern CA are so inundated with applicants that you might not be receiving any calls unless there's something that sets your application apart from the masses.

Good luck to you!

royalscrubs · Sep 13, 2014

^^ Yes I am referring to UC Irvine. I have my ACLS/PALS/EKG/NRP certs. I also just enrolled in a course through coursera.org. I haven't applied to positions outside acute care settings for fear of being stuck there and also since long term care does not count as acute care, I feel like it will be hard to get an acute care position later on.

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Sep 13, 2014

I haven't applied to positions outside acute care settings for fear of being stuck there and also since long term care does not count as acute care, I feel like it will be hard to get an acute care position later on.

Then prepare to be unemployed for a long time. As a new grad with no bargaining chips in southern California, you cannot afford to turn your nose up at home health, hospice, psychiatric facilities, physical rehab, prisons, group homes, or other employers that would be more welcoming to new nurses.