Work as MHT?

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I graduated recently from a nursing program (RN) and have not been able to find work. Previously before finishing school I filled out applications for psych positions since I have a BA in Behavioral Science. To my suprise I got a call from a local hospital for an interview as a Mental Health Tech. I am in such a pickle, I really need this job, the bills are piling up and the creditors can't wait. I am a new grad and it is so hard to find work. Do you think they will let me work as a Mental Health Tech, even though I have a nursing license? Should I even bring it up during the interview, I really need this job. Maybe they will give me the job and see how hard of a worker I am and offer me a nursing position eventually, what do you think?

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Specializes in Psych (25 years), Medical (15 years).

I think it's something like the old thing about a square being a rectangle, but a rectangle can't be a square. In other words, an RN has the qualifications for being a MHT, but not the other way around.

It is said that actions speak louder than words. So here's what I did in a similar circumstance:

I worked as a CNA for about a week after graduating as an LPN until an opening came up. Working as a CNA got my foot in the door and I easily transitioned into the position of working as an LPN.

During the hiring process, it was made clear that I would do no duties or responsibilities above and beyond being a CNA until the formal transition process to working as an LPN took place.

Ya gotta do whatcha gotta do sometimes. Good luck to you.

Dave

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Thank you Dave, good advice

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Specializes in Psych, Med/Surg, LTC.

If you need the money now, then go for it. I think you would transition just fine.

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I would definitely let your employer know you have a license. An LPN was hired as a MHT at my hospital recently without telling anyone about her license, then she mentioned it later and they were very annoyed at her. I think they let her switch to a nurse position, hopeful you could switch too.

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Update: Decided to focus on nursing positions only, that's what I went to school for.

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Specializes in psych, addictions, hospice, education.

If you take the MHT job, be sure that what you do is in your job description. Even though you're a nurse, you must not do nursely things, because the facility won't back you up if something goes wrong.

I think taking the MHT job could be a great way to get your foot in the door as long as you're careful. Do tell them you're a nurse. That matters alot. Could be they even have openings for nurses that haven't been posted anywhere yet.

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I am so frustrated with my job search. I will let HR know I am a nurse before I accept a non-nursing position. Always cover yourself.

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