Should I choose a full time RN position or a residency as a new grad RN?? Residences seem to pay way less and you have to alternate between days and nights. Pros and cons??
An RN residency does pay less at first but also provides incomparable, specific and mentored training and allows you to try out a particular area (or sometimes many) - as it’s a more closely supervised situation, you’re not expected to hit the ground running as much as you would be in a new FT job where training has become shockingly short - it’s kind of “sink or swim.” Residency offers the chance for both you and the employer to decide whether or not it’s a good fit before making a long-term commitment. Once the residency is over, you should know the going rates for new hires and be prepared to negotiate for better pay, leveraging your residency experience before accepting an offer. There are LOADS of jobs out there but the hiring process can take months, so be patient, stay positive, and good luck! Congratulations!
Most new graduates aren't comfortable being entirely on their own. I would have loved a residency program but there was none when I first came out of school. Yes there are drawbacks but you have to decide if the temporary drawbacks are worth it to you. Good luck with your career.
Residences are designed to train new nurses or nurses in to speciality services. For example, L and D, ER and ICU. A well done one, would incorporate trained preceptor and classes with the departments educator. That's why they pay less. Generally, when the residency ends you reapply as staff and the salary goes up.
These are generalities. Please use this answer as a starting point to ask questions about a residency.
Quick piece of advice, from a hiring manager. Be careful how you ask the questions. Try to.come across as friendly and excited to learn. And excited about the specialty. If you know something about the training program, add that.
Best of luck.
An RN residency will prepare you. Money is not the end all. As you grow through the 12-20 residency you will find your path and when you come off, you will be better prepared to care for the population that you are in.
