Would you do that? New grad dilemma

bugya90, ASN, BSN, LVN, RN · Nov 11, 2019

I would be vary cautious of working as a LVN with a RN license. I was a LVN for several years before I went back to school for my RN so I understand the draw for it. However, many Boards of Nursing frown on this from a liability stand point.

You will be working in a LVN role (along with the limitations placed upon that role by the employer) but if something were to go wrong you will be expected to critically think as a RN. If something terrible were to happen (sentinel event, etc) you will be held liable to your highest licensure (RN) regardless of your current job role. Similar reasons why many nurses (LVNs & RNs alike) do not like working as CNAs when units are short staffed. If "stuff" hits the fan, they will be expected to act as a nurse, not an aide and held liable to the nursing standards.

Apply for every RN job you think you may want or be able to live with for 1-2 years. Even if it says experience preferred, apply anyway. the worse they can do is say no. Set up the interviews with SNF and HH and see what they are about. If you don't like what your hear/see at the interview then you can always decline any potential offer. Also apply for those new grad residencies, even though they may not start until February (not preferred but you can work seasonal retail if you need the income between now and then.)

Hoosier_RN, MSN · Nov 11, 2019

On 11/10/2019 at 10:38 AM, Twinkle007 said:
It was written on the add that ‘new graduates are welcome to apply’ so I thought I have a chance

If it's an LVN position, it means new grad LVN

Sadala, ADN, RN · Nov 11, 2019

Contrary to a lot of other responders (meh, my computer underlines the word responders and I don't know why. It's bugging my OCD), I actually don't think its the worst plan in the world. IF you do a fantastic job in any capacity and are willing to work without calling in or slouching then people will notice and will want you for their team. You might have to put in a few months time at a lower pay rate, but if you're not independently wealthy and can't spend months looking, its not the worst plan in the world. In my opinion.

First though, make sure that your resume contains the clinicals (also underlined btw, hmphh...) you've performed at different hospitals and apply at THOSE hospitals. Go to HR personally and ask what you need to get in the door. Its more difficult to ignore people who are there in front of you as opposed to nameless faces on internet submitted resumes.

Good luck!

PS... two weeks is not that long in the grand scheme of things ?

VNurse30 · Nov 12, 2019

Go to the LVN interview. Odds are that they need an RN and they'll probably offer you the RN position. If not, you can make connections with the manager. Ask questions about available jobs on other units, contact information for educators, etc. If you make a great impression, you may even get some introductions.

stockmanjr, BSN · Nov 12, 2019

I would be very careful about taking a position just because you think you can move up. I used to work as a clerk and one thing my manager really hated was folks who showed up for CNA or volunteer positions just as they were about to graduate. I would be prepared to stay in the LVN role for a bit of time before expecting anything.

MSO4foru, ADN · Nov 13, 2019

Good luck... at this point my instinct is to tell you to apply for SNF ALF job. Home health ( and home hospice) jobs require at least a couple years of previous acute care experience , so that nurses can at least feel competent. Get about a year under your belt then think about hospital.