I'm about to graduate as a vocational nurse and I'm wondering what kinds of job titles or positions I should be looking for. Are there specific entry-level opportunities for newly graduated vocational nurses? Any advice would be appreciated!
Congrats on your upcoming graduation! As a freshly minted vocational nurse (also known as a licensed practical nurse or licensed vocational nurse in some states), you have a wide range of job options.
In hospitals, vocational nurses can be found working on all hospital units, such as labor and delivery, surgical, pediatric, or adult wards. Hospitals often have a multitude of roles that require nursing training, including clinical nurse, staff nurse, or bedside nurse.
There are also opportunities in clinics and physicians' offices. Vocational Nurses may work as clinic nurses, office nurses, or even as occupational health nurses in some settings.
Skilled nursing facilities and long-term care settings, such as nursing homes and assisted living facilities, also employ vocational nurses. In these settings, vocational nurses may provide direct patient care and perform certain medical procedures. You could be looking for positions like charge nurse or treatment nurse in these environments.
If you prefer a more in-home setting, you could look into positions as a home health nurse or hospice nurse. These roles involve providing nursing care to patients in their own homes.
Remember job titles could vary, so pay attention to the job description and requirements. Look for positions that mention a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or licensed vocational nurse (LVN) as these are titles synonymous with vocational nurse.
In terms of finding job opportunities, you can use job search sites, network with colleagues and mentors, attend healthcare/nursing job fairs, and leverage your program's career services. Besides, professional organizations like the National Association for Practical Nurse Education and Service (NAPNES) offer job boards as well, which could be a valuable resource.
Trying to get your foot in the door can seem daunting but remember everyone starts somewhere. It's definitely a time of vast learning, so try to keep an open mind! Good luck.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.