Where are all the jobs?

[straba]

I graduated from an NP program in 08, and had two short term jobs right after. I've been looking for a permanent position, without success for over two years. I have since gone back to an old (non-nursing) job in order to live and pay bills. I apply to lots of jobs, but all want 3-5 years of NP experience. I have had several interviews, but have not been offered a position. At this point, I have been out of practice for so long, I don't feel I could do an effective job even if I was hired somewhere. I've worked so hard for so long , and did really well in school, but have not found any success as an NP. I am totally discouraged and ready to walk away from the field completely. I see my dream going down the toilet.

[reeya]

where are you located? are you willing to get trained unpaid? tell them you want to get trained and they can decide later if they want to hire you or not. if you dont want to move and jobs are so scarce that might be the way to go. I didnt know NP jobs were so hard to find...It chills me to hear story like this because I am getting closer to graduation.

[Lovanurse]

Maybe you can contact the University you went to for assistance? I know my program always sends me job offers via email. You may also want to join a local Nursing Association to do a little bit of networking. Try to hang in there. Good Luck

[smartfun03]

I went on Indeed.com and put in the search words "new grad NP". A lot were willing to train.:)

[CCRNDiva, BSN, RN]

I'm curious, did you have nursing experience prior to becoming a NP and what type of NP are you? Some hospitals have programs for additional clinical experience (Methodist Hospital in TX and Crowley Shock Trauma Hospital in Maryland - check out their nursing websites). There are also some acute care and primary care residencies or fellowships available for additional training for NPs. I've found some in GI, pain, primary care and acute care/cardiology or critical care using google.

I know some employers want NPs w/ previous nursing experience and if you don't have that, maybe you should look into getting some nursing experience if that is what is desired in your area and you are unwilling to relocate. A year or two of nursing experience may make a difference and your coworkers don't have to know you've been trained as a NP.

In the meantime, try looking into continuing education offerings for your NP concentration. You may find some that will help get you up to speed in current practice. Have you remained current in practice guidelines? If not, sign up for ACLS and BLS classes, and register for Medscape (they have tons of information regarding disease and injury treatment guidelines and medications). Good luck!!

[79Tango]

What about taking a travel assignment? Most of them want 2years of experience, however a DEA and BLS certification is sometimes all it takes!