new Nurse on the site - needs guidance

[nursekie]

hi there everyone! Its really nice to know that we have this website to share different views, experiences and most of all help others with their problems.

I just recently passed the NCLEX-RN exam last week before thanksgiving! As I am waiting for the official mail denoting my passing for the exam I am preparing on what steps to take in order to get a job.

Unfortunately, I do not have an nursing experience here in the US, since I am a foreign graduate who nurse/pharmacist who just migrated here in NJ. I am lost in choosing what seminars and trainings to take in order for me to get at least some additional certification/education or experience... As I was checking Jobs online here in NJ or NY, some jobs require you to have BLS / ACLS trainings. Is this the way to do it? DO I need to get these certifications first before attending other seminars (like the IV certifications) that are relevant? I used to have a certification on BLS and ACLS from another country but it already expired.

Hope somebody can guide me on my dilemma on what seminars and trainings to take, thus, can you also direct me on where/ what website i can find all these?

thank you all!

[cooks]

I suggest checking with the American Heart Association for information on training for BLS and ACLS.

[nursekie]

thank you cooks

[RyanRN]

Most likely you'd be required to have the BLS - most hospitals give as an inservice. ACLS would be good to get on your own - they do like seeing that as well as any cerftication in the field you plan to explore.

Good luck, congratulations and welcome.

[maire]

Welcome to the site. Also advise you to contact the American Heart Assn. for courses in BLS and ACLS. You can also look at hospital websites to see if their classes are open to the public. If you obtain the ACLS on your own, you will be at an advantage when you apply to jobs that require it. Good luck.

[nursekie]

Thank you RyanRN and MAIRE. I am following your advice and I will be attending the BLS class first this coming Dec 21 at UMDNJ

Thank you guys so much. I really appreciate your advices. God Bless!