What's a graduate nurse to do?

Published

Hey everyone! Forgive me if this isn't the correct place to put this thread, I just figured it would apply seeing as this is the 'General', or non-specific area.

First off, my name is Adam. I'm graduating from a Diploma based nursing school (R.N.) next Sunday, November 24th! (Yay!!) My inquiry today is about my future career.

I've only applied to one place, and plan to attend an open house for a critical care facility December 4th. The place I applied to, SSM, has set up a telephone interview with me (for which I am SUPER excited about)! It's for their Futures Program, which is essentially a one on one, extensive orientation/learning program. I want this job very badly because from what I understand, you come out of that orientation like A BOSS! (i.e. really knowing what you're doing ;) )

However! Today, my teacher approached me and informed me that the Nurse Manager of the E.R. of our sister hospital has mentioned me, by name, to come and apply as an ER Nurse! I am extremely honored that I was asked to come apply, and my teacher told me that it's unusual for graduate nurses with no prior experience to start immediately in the ER, so, it's apparently quite an honor! (So I'm told.)

I'm definitely going to apply, but I always feel a little trepidation about attending multiple interviews from multiple places. What I mean is, it's hard enough for some experienced nurses to find work these days, and my being overly selective about which position to take seems almost insulting? I'd feel bad if I went to both interviews, and got both jobs, but had to discard one for the other.

Plus, there's the "Am I good enough for ER yet?" thought that goes through my mind. The other position is more steady paced (Med-Surg), and the orientation is quite lengthy (which may benefit me). However, being an ER nurse would be absolutely awesome!

What do you guys think? What would you do? Without knowing me, or my skill set, do you think I could manage being an ER nurse directly out of school? I'm excited, but also a little nervous. I may want to go the 3rd route, and go for the critical care position. Ahhhh!!!!

Sorry for the long read, and thank you in advanced for any advice. If it's needed, I am continuing education next Spring, or Fall, depending on work (BSN), and I definitely plan on continuing beyond that for my MSN, or Practitioner degree... or if I've got the stuff, perhaps even a CRNA :)

Advice? Please?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

These days, I would take any/every interview I could get. If nothing else, interviews are a valuable educational experience for you. Best wishes!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

WAY TO GO! Man, if I were in your position I'd attend all interviews, and probably take the ER position if it were offered! I mean, a request by name is pretty awesome. That means that nurse manager feels you've got the stuff to handle the job! Have confidence and just know that you have a lot to learn, but you can do it!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Do both interviews and cross the bridge of what do I do if I get both later.

As my mom says don't count your chickens before they hatch.

Both are great opportunities and it would be foolish to not go to both interviews!

You can do it! :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Go on both interviews and wait to see if you are offered any of the jobs. Nursing jobs are hard to come by so wait and see what happens.

Sent from my iPhone using allnurses.com

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Has anyone went straight into the ER post-graduation with no prior experience?

If so, did you adjust well?

To anyone that has/does work in the ER: Is it worth it?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Check out the ER section when you get a chance! Tons of good info.

It's under "specialties"

Emergency Nursing

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ER.

I'm offered a job after I graduate in the ER but I work in it as a paramedic. I'm also offered an ICU position but I precepted there.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion