Best Nursing Jobs for New Grad LVNs/LPNs Outside Skilled Nursing Facilities

Choosing the right nursing job as a new graduate LVN/LPN can be a daunting task, especially if you prefer not to work in skilled nursing facilities. While there are many rewarding career paths, this article explores several suitable options to help you find a position that aligns with your interests and career goals.

Hospital Medical Surgical Floor

Why Work on a Hospital Medical Surgical Floor?

I highly recommend starting your nursing career on a hospital medical surgical floor. This environment provides a broad and general knowledge base of patient care, enhancing skills that may have been overlooked during nursing school. Here are some reasons why:

You will gain a comprehensive understanding of patient care, learning various routine practices that may have been skipped in school. You will become more comfortable with the daily operations and routines of nursing care. You will learn to become an effective team member, which is crucial as you start your nursing career. You will build self-confidence in your abilities, which is essential for successful job performance.

Alternative Job Options for New Grad LVNs/LPNs

For new graduate LVNs/LPNs who prefer not to work in skilled nursing facilities, there are several alternative job options that can provide a fulfilling career. Let's explore some of the best-suited roles:

Home Health Care Nurse

What Does a Home Health Care Nurse Do?

Home health care nurses provide care to patients in their homes, which can include:

Administering medications Performing wound care Monitoring vital signs Offering flexibility in scheduling Providing a more personal patient care experience

Outpatient Clinics

What Are the Responsibilities of an Outpatient Clinic Nurse?

Outpatient clinics are settings where urgent care, family practice, and specialty clinics operate. Responsibilities may include:

Taking patient histories Assisting with exams Performing basic procedures

Hospitals Entry-Level Positions

Hospitals Entry-Level Opportunities

Hospitals often hire LVNs/LPNs for entry-level positions in areas such as:

Telemetry units Medical-surgical units Emergency departments Roles that support RNs

While there may be some skilled nursing interaction, the environment is dynamic and varied.

Pediatric Clinics

Working with Children in Pediatric Clinics

Pediatric clinics involve working with children and their families, providing:

Vaccinations Check-ups Education on health and wellness

This can be a rewarding field for those who enjoy working with kids.

Mental Health Facilities

Mental Health Nursing Opportunities

Mental health facilities offer nursing care in psychiatric units or mental health clinics, focusing on the emotional and psychological well-being of patients. This involves:

Working with a diverse patient population Providing care in psychiatric or mental health clinics Being quite fulfilling for those who are passionate about mental health care

School Nursing

School Nursing Roles

School nursing involves working in educational settings, providing:

Care to students Managing health screenings Promoting health education Offering a stable schedule aligned with the school year

Telehealth Nursing

Remote Nursing Opportunities

Telehealth nursing allows nurses to engage with patients remotely via phone or video consultations, providing:

Assessments Education Support

This option is ideal for those who prefer not to work in traditional clinical settings.

Community Health Nursing

Health Promotion and Prevention

Community health nursing focuses on health promotion and disease prevention within communities. This may involve working for:

Non-profits Public health organizations Outreach programs

Research Nursing

Study and Data Collection

Research nursing provides an opportunity to assist in clinical trials or research studies, collecting data and ensuring patient safety during studies. This role is ideal for those interested in a more academic or investigative environment.

Occupational Health Nursing

Employee Health and Safety

Occupational health nursing works within companies, promoting employee health and safety through:

Conducting health screenings Implementing wellness programs

Consider your interests, patient populations, and the work environment when evaluating these options. Ensuring a fulfilling nursing career is essential for long-term job satisfaction and professional growth.