U.S.A. New York
Published Oct 15, 2009
GN-nurse09
9 Posts
Hi, i have already graduated but i still don't have a licence, i will be taking my second NCLEX soon. I want to start working in the nursing field because i don't have any experience other than my clinicals but i don't have much idea, so i am hoping if someone could answer my questions.
1- can i work as an CNA or LPN, and if i can do i need to take a coruse to be certified?
2- If i can work as an LPN can i sit for a licence eventhough i graduated as a RN or do i have to graduate from an
lpn programe?
3- what would you suggest would be a good idea to get a job in nursing field without my rn licence?
i live in NY and if any once can help i'll really appereciate. Thank you.
flightnurse2b, LPN
1 Article; 1,496 Posts
i'm not sure about new york state but i know here in florida once you complete fundamentals of nursing you can work in a hospital as a nurse tech. we have quite a few graduate nurses as well as nursing students working as techs on my floor.
as far as working as a LPN, you still have to pass the NCLEX to do that, but being able to sit for the NCLEX-PN in addition to the NCLEX-RN, that is something you have to ask your BON about. some states do allow you to sit for the NCLEX-PN once you finish your 1st yr of an RN program.
your best bet is to call the NY BON and find out exactly what their rules are so you have a better idea of your options.
good luck! :)
NYCRN16
392 Posts
I would just concentrate on studying for your board exam. Any hospital that you may apply to as a CNA is going to know that you will leave that position once you pass your boards. I think it will hurt you more in the long run to not pass your boards this time around than to start a new job with no experience. The experience you will get once you are working as a nurse, but you can't get there until you pass. Keep studying and good luck!
1lollipop
150 Posts
If you can afford to just concentrate on passing your NCLEX, that would be best. Otherwise, I don't see why it'd be tougher to find a job as a nurse tech. You could always say that u plan to work f/t as a nurse at the place once you get licensed. It's up to the employer to decide if they'd let u work temporarily as a nurse or nurse tech. Also, it's easier to find per diem jobs when you're new. It would be in their best interest to hire you b/c they can "mold u" into being the kind of nurse they want/need. Advertise your value to the employer and act confident (w/o sounding arrogant). Apply to many places in several diff. areas to increase your chances. A few good references wouldn't hurt either.
guys thank you all for telling me i have to get my licence and helped me realize what was more important.....eventualy i continued studying and finaly passed my nclex yesterday........ thank you all very much.