New nursing graduates are having a tough time finding work in California. The recession has forced many hospitals to put a freeze on new hires.
It wasn't that long ago a new nursing graduate could have their pick of jobs, but the recession has altered the employment picture.
Deloras Jones directs the non-profit California Institute for Nursing and Health Care. She says the bad economy has forced experienced nurses to put off their retirement, and Jones says they're working more hours.
"And nurses that were not working have come back into the workforce, and have essentially taken many of the positions that new graduates were expected to go into," Jones pointed out.
Jones says hospital work is slim for new graduates, but she adds that there are opportunities in primary care and home health.
