Work as LVN to get RN experience??

RN-BS1972 · Dec 16, 2009

I would go back to the hospital on a med surg or to a rehab hospital that is affiliated with a hospital with a strong name, not a nursing home, sub acute would be good too. Don't listen to what people think you should do. You know what you need to do so go for it. Don't let anyone take away the experience that you have it is valuable, and many will try to degrade it and the ones that do that you probablly know more than them. Good luck and take care of and listen to what your gut tells you.

Silverdragon102, BSN · Dec 16, 2009

How will working as a LPN get you RN experience? My understanding is the roles are a little different and you can not do some things as a LPN which you can as a RN.

DogWmn · Dec 16, 2009

Ummm you have to have a license to practice as an LPN.

caliotter3 · Dec 16, 2009

I have been told by employers that my LVN experience will not get me an RN job. I would not look for an LVN job if I were you. Apply to RN positions and don't pigeonhole yourself into a low paying position.

backinthesaddleRN · Dec 16, 2009

I think having an RN License covers it.

backinthesaddleRN · Dec 16, 2009

Calliotter,

That is what I would assume, so I was surprised the headhunter mentioned it. A recruiter for Kaiser told me I needed 6 months recent experience and she'd hire me immediately. So where am i suppossed to get the experience...it's a Catch 22.

caliotter3 · Dec 16, 2009

I would suggest that you try a home health agency. Ask for extended care, not intermittent visits. Explain that you would appreciate a thorough orientation period. Extended care patients are typically routine care and stable. They usually require LPN/LVN level care that you would be able to handle even with the long gap. (Although LVN level care, RNs are usually paid one or two dollars an hour more on these cases). You would be oriented to the case by a nurse on the case, the supervisor, or a family member. If you get a night shift job, there is sometimes little more than watching the patient sleep. The longer you do the work, the better you will feel about it. Then you can move on from this if you want. Hope you are successful in your job search. P.S. Home health agencies that are hurting for employees are usually easier to get on with, particularly for an RN.