graduate nurse resume template free

How to Create a New Graduate Nurse Resume & Cover Letter

Nursing resume vs cover letter, how to write a new grad nurse resume.

• Resume Tips
• Cover Letters
• Cover Letter Example

By the time you graduate nursing school, you may be an expert in cath placement, starting IVs, and dropping those nursing diagnoses, but you might not be an expert in the one act you’ll need to ace right after graduation: getting your first nursing job .    It might be easy to think that your application process for your first nursing job will be similar to that stressful practicum exam (why is it so much harder to put on sterile gloves in front of other people?!), but to apply for a nursing job, you’ll need to create an effective new graduate nursing resume and cover letter.    Of course, it can be a little more challenging to create a resume if you’re a new grad without any official nursing experience, but don’t worry—most hospitals not only expect that, but welcome new grads, and are specifically recruiting new grad nurses. So, here’s how to craft the perfect new grad nursing resume and cover letter, with examples to help you land that dream job. 

First things first: let’s discuss the differences between a nursing cover letter and a resume. A cover letter is a personal letter that you will include either in an email or with the application. The cover letter directly addresses the employer states your interest in the job, and lists a few personal reasons why you’re right for the job. There will be more on crafting a cover letter below. 

A resume, on the other hand, is your professional portfolio that lists your education, experience, skills, and certifications. You can think of the cover letter as the personal touch and the resume as the highlight reel. 

There are two basic ways to create a nursing resume : 

• Craft your own version
• Use a premade template 

For instance, many document editing software systems, such as Word, have built-in templates that can be adapted for your own individual use. 

In general, no matter if you craft your own resume or use a premade template, a new grad nursing resume will include 5 basic elements:

1. Your Personal Information

This section will include all of your personal information, such as your name, title, phone number, address, and email. Include a personal email address instead of a school-associated one. Eventually, your school email may be disabled and you will want HR to be able to contact you. Some people will also opt to include a small, work-appropriate headshot (no selfies!) as well.

A resume should highlight specific skills that you possess that can translate into your nursing career. For instance, skills such as working with a team, critical thinking, communication, and time management are all valuable for nurses.

3. Certifications

In this section, you should list any certifications you have already obtained, such as your CPR, ALS, or any other advanced certification you have earned. If you have passed your NCLEX, list your RN credentials as well.

4. Licenses

If you have not passed your NCLEX or have not taken it yet, you can write, “Eligible for NCLEX test for RN on X date,” so that the employer knows when you will be taking the NCLEX. 

Employing hospitals are understanding of the fact that there can be a delay between graduation and getting a date for your NCLEX test, so it’s okay to apply before you have taken your NCLEX test. 

Just be aware that if you are hired, there will be some limitations to your work until you officially become an RN.

5. Education

Under the education section of your resume, you will list any institutions for higher education that you attended. 

It’s optional if you want to include your high school, but considering you’re graduating from a nursing program, it’s not necessary. 

You can include details if you attended a college in the beginning of your education, then transferred. You’ll also include your GPA, any honors you received during your education, and your major and minor.

6. Relevant Experience

Because you most likely don’t have a lot of official nursing experience, this is the section to really highlight what kind of experience you do have that is relevant to the job. 

Of course, you’ll want to include any experience you have—both paid and volunteer—in the medical field. Maybe you’ve volunteered at a nursing home, have piloted community events, or have been working as a CNA. Whatever it is, highlight it!

If you made it through nursing school without any official healthcare work or volunteer roles, that’s okay too. You can translate many skills from different jobs, such as communication, teamwork, and time management with customer service or retail roles. 

>> Find Nursing Jobs Hiring Now on the Nurse.org Job Board

New Grad Nursing Resume Tips

It might feel challenging to create your first nursing resume, but here are some tips to help you along the way:

1. Don’t Be Afraid to Let Your Personality Shine

A new grad resume will be a pretty standard document and you should always keep it professional, but don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through your resume too. 

You can add personal touches, such as design elements, including color, or a personal photo, as well as highlight the skills and experiences and even goals for your future career.

2. Have Friends and Family Review the Resume

It’s time to bring in the village! Gather a few people you trust who can review the resume for you and make sure it’s typo-free and shines a spotlight on your best qualities.

3. Be Sure to Read the Job Description

If you are applying for a specific position or nurse residency program , be sure to carefully read the entire job description and posting so you know what they are looking for. 

If they have outlined specific skills or traits, include those in your resume. If they state that they are looking for someone who has graduated from a local school, highlight that on your resume. If they want someone who is willing to train in new areas, be sure to let them know that that’s you! 

Not only does referencing the job posting in your resume show them that you have done your research and really are the right person for the job, but it can also help ensure your resume gets past any resume-scanning software that the facility may be using.

4. Ask for Help

If you need assistance in crafting your resume, there are resources that can help. 

Firstly, you could consider asking your nursing school or professors for help. They should be able to point you to resources or help you directly. 

Next, a friend may be a good resource—they could have a template you could build off, or offer advice for creating your own resume. 

Lastly, there are professional resume services that you can hire for complete help with your resume. There are perfectly valid reasons why someone might need professional help for a resume, and there’s no shame in that.

5. Include Letters of Recommendation

Some places of employment may require references or letters of recommendation, but even if they do not, it’s a good idea to include references and letters of recommendation, if possible.

 A good place to start is to ask your professors, clinical educators, or current managers.

New Grad Nursing Resume Example

Education and certification.

Use this section to highlight your relevant passions, activities, and how they relate to nursing. It’s good to include Leadership and volunteer experiences here. Or show off important extras like publications, certifications, languages and more.

Bonus! New Grad Nursing Resume Templates You Can Use

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[gated-new-nurse-resume-template-3]

Cover Letters for New Grad Nurses

You’ve got your resume looking great, now it’s time for the dreaded new grad nurse cover letter . Never fear! We have the tips to help you shine on your cover letter.

Do You Need a Cover Letter When Applying to Jobs as a New Grad Nurse?

In most situations, you do need a cover letter when applying for nursing positions.

What Should You Include in a Cover Letter as a New Grad Nurse?

A new nurse grad’s cover letter should include your personal and contact information, like your name, address, phone number, and email, and a personal statement to the employer that you are applying for a job at. 

This is your opportunity to speak personally to the employer, highlight why you want to work for them, and how your skills, experience, and passions match with the job assignment.

How is a New Grad Nurse Cover Letter Unique From Other Cover Letters?

A new grad nurse’s cover letter should focus on your strengths and how those strengths can be an asset to the organization, as well as your future career goals and how taking this position will help you fulfill those goals. 

For instance, if you hope to gain experience in working in an ICU position, speak directly to that goal. 

New Grad Nurse Cover Letter Example

Your name Address Phone number, email

To Whom It May Concern:

I am interested in applying for a position at This Medical Center. I am a recent graduate of Your School, where I obtained my Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing. I will be eligible to sit for my NCLEX on THIS DATE and I am eager to utilize my knowledge and grow in experience by becoming a team member with This Medical Center.

During the course of my education, I INSERT PERSONAL DETAILS OR STORY ABOUT WHY YOU WANT THIS JOB OR YOUR OWN SKILLS. I am confident that my clinical experience in combination with my motivation, determination and strong critical thinking skills will enable me to excel in any clinical setting. 

As a long-time member of this community and someone who has had family members who have been patients at This Medical Center, it is extremely important to me to embody the goal of this organization by serving the community with caring, compassion and competence.

It is my sincere hope that I may become a vital member of the healthcare team at this organization. I aspire to grow on a professional level working with other team members, as well as personally, learning from each and every patient I will care for. I am confident that This Medical Center is an excellent choice for meeting these goals. 

Thank you in advance for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely, Your name, G.N. (graduate nurse)

How long should a new grad nurse's resume be?

• Ideally, a new grad’s resume should be no longer than one page.

Do you need to include a summary in your nursing resume?

• You do not need to include a summary in your nursing resume, but a few short sentences can highlight your experience up to now, as well as your goals in the job you are applying for. Here’s more on how to write an effective summary.

How can nurses improve new grad resumes?

• As a new grad, you can improve your resume by ensuring it aligns with the job position you’re applying for (for instance, include that any skills you have match what they’re looking for!), having trusted people review it for you, and if needed, hire professional help.

How do you write a nursing resume with no experience?

• If you have no official nursing experience, highlight relevant skills, education, and experiences that could directly translate into a role as a nurse. For instance, many jobs and volunteer roles have relevant skills such as communicating, working as part of a team, and time management.

Should I put GPA on a nursing resume?

• If you are a new grad, it can be helpful to put your GPA on a nursing resume, especially if you have not yet taken your NCLEX. Once you have earned your RN, however, a GPA is not necessary. You can include any academic honors, such as summa cum laude. 

Chaunie Brusie , BSN, RN is a nurse-turned-writer with experience in critical care, long-term care, and labor and delivery. Her work has appeared everywhere from Glamor to The New York Times to The Washington Post. Chaunie lives with her husband and five kids in the middle of a hay field in Michigan and you can find more of her work here . 

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6 New Grad Nursing Resume Examples + How To Write

Are you a new grad nurse or about to complete your nursing degree? If so, congratulations on your impressive accomplishment! At this point, you may be wondering what is your next action in the strategy to secure a job. If so, read on for vital information to help you successfully navigate the unchartered territory of finding employment as a nurse. Preparing a top-notch resume is an essential step in securing a position after graduation. When thinking about how to compose a resume, you might ask, what are some exceptional examples of new grad nursing resumes? This article, 6 best new grad nursing resume examples, will guide you through the process of creating a professional new grad nursing resume that is sure to impress. Additionally, well-structured resume examples will visually aid you in designing your resume that is sure to catch the eye of your future employer.

What Exactly Is A New Grad Nursing Resume?

How is a new grad nursing resume different from an experienced nursing resume, 4 reasons why an exceptional resume makes a difference to new grad nurses, 1. you may be competing with experienced nurses-, 2. there may be many candidates-, 3. highlights new skills-, 4. helps to get your foot in the door-, what are some exceptional examples of new grad nursing resumes, example #1: resume of diane joyner, diane joyner, licenses and credentialing, clinical experience, student nurse.

• Performed new mom, baby and labor and delivery patient care duties on a 12-bed obstetrics unit. • Team leader for student nurse rotation on 2 occasions. • Developed nursing care plans on 2-3 patients each week. • Completed 75 clinical hours in obstetrics.

• Performed patient care duties on a busy 28-bed pediatric unit. Commended by clinical instructor, preceptor, and unit nurses for ease of adaptation, enthusiasm, and expert nursing care of children on unit. • Team leader for colleagues on 4 occasions. • Developed nursing care plans on 3-10 patients per week. • Developed and instituted engaging quiet activity lessons and entertainment boxes for children while in the hospital. • For children in quarantine, developed exercises to promote circulation and heart health while recovering in isolation, if applicable. • Completed 75 clinical hours in Pediatrics.

• Provided nursing care in a busy inner-city ER, ICU, and CCU. • Completed 90 hours total of critical care clinical hours. • Evaluated at 100% by the instructor for competence in critical care skills.

• Completed 30 outpatient hours as a public health nurse, either traveling for home visits or at a community clinic. • Evaluated and developed plans of care for patients from 7 months to 70 years old. • Completed 30 additional outpatient hours in a public elementary and middle school.

• Performed basic nursing care in a 400-bed community hospital with 2-4 adult patients daily. • Administered nursing services to seniors and disabled patients in community rehab and nursing facilities. • Completed 100 hours total of med-surg clinical hours.

Work History

Certified nurses aid.

• Performed basic hygiene and health aide services in a 300-bed nursing facility during vacations and summer.

Secretary to Bloomsburg University Department of Nursing

• Performed basic office duties such as filing, answering phones, and typing reports.

Babysitter for 2 diabetic sisters

• Hired to babysit and carefully monitor 2 diabetic children where carb counting, blood sugar monitoring, and insulin injections were necessary.

• Hostess, waitress, cook, and dishwasher duties as needed in a bustling restaurant.

Volunteer Work

• Mother of a newborn • Candy striper • Campus Catholic Organization • Church nursery worker • St Francis Soup Kitchen • Campus blood drive

What Makes This An Exceptional New Grad Registered Nurse Resume:

Example #2: resume of jan beck, licenses and credentialing.

1/2021-4/2021 Boseman, Montana

• Performed new mom, baby, and labor and delivery patient care duties on an 8-bed birthing center. • Developed nursing care plans on 1-2 patients each week. • Completed 75 clinical hours in obstetrics.

9/2020-11/2020 Boseman, Montana

• Performed patient care duties on a busy 20-bed pediatric unit. • Developed nursing care plans on 2-4 patients per week. • Completed 75 clinical hours in Pediatrics.

1/2020-5/2020 Boseman, Montana

• Provided nursing care ER, ICU, and CCU. • Completed 90 hours total of critical care clinical hours. • Evaluated at 99% by the instructor for competence in critical care skills. • Selected consistently by the staff and clinical instructor to work on Covid and burn units along with special cases.

11/2019-12/2019 Boseman, Montana

• Completed 30 psychiatric clinical hours at a 150-bed psychiatric hospital. • Completed psychiatric evaluations and instituted and monitored mental health treatment plans on 2 patients per day.

9/2019-10/2019 Boseman, Montana

• Completed 30 outpatient hours in a high school health clinic.

1/2019- 5/2019 Boseman, Montana

• Performed basic adult nursing care in a 200-bed community hospital with 2-4 patients daily. • Completed 100 hours total of med-surg clinical hours.

WORK HISTORY

University lab assistant.

5/2019-Present Boseman, Montana

• Selected by nursing faculty to assist in Anatomy and Physiology labs along with Microbiology lab.

Student Tutor

1/2020-Present Boseman, Montana

• Tutored students in course work for science, health, computer technology.

HONORS AND AWARDS

• Graduated second in nursing class with a 3.96 GPA • Received 4.0 in all clinical rotations • Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society • Award for future nurse in excellence and scholarship

Example #3: Resume of Joan Zimmerman

Joan zimmerman.

1/2021-4/2021

• Completed 60 clinical hours rotating between urgent care and family health clinic. • The preceptor stated she felt very confident in all skills and knowledge to independently care for patients under her supervision.

9/2020-11/2020

• Performed patient care duties on a busy 60-bed pediatric unit. • Developed nursing care plans on 2-4 patients per day. • Completed 75 clinical hours in Pediatrics.

1/2020-5/2020

• Provided nursing care ER, ICU, and CCU. • Completed 90 hours total of critical care clinical hours. • Evaluated at 100% by the instructor for competence in critical care skills. • Team head 3 out of 10-week rotation. • Nurses on the unit commented daily on my advanced knowledge of cardiovascular conditions and ability to handle patient care efficiently.

11/2019-12/2019

• Completed 30 psychiatric clinical hours at a 241-bed psychiatric hospital. • Completed psychiatric evaluations and instituted and monitored mental health treatment plans on 2 patients per day.

9/2019-10/2019

• Completed 60 outpatient hours rotating between units for women’s health, labor and delivery, NICU, PICU, and newborn nursery.

1/2019-5/2019

• Performed basic nursing care on adults in a busy 600-bed hospital with 2-4 patients daily. • Completed 100 hours total of med-surg clinical hours.

Walmart Cashier

5/2017-Present

Honors and Awards

• Graduated first in nursing class with a 3.99 GPA • Received 4.0 in all clinical rotations • Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society • Future Nurse Leader Award • School of Nursing Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award

Volunteer and Leadership Experience

• President of Student Nursing Association • Captain of the high school basketball team

Example #4: Resume of Lizzie Arndt

Lizzie arndt.

1/2021-5/2021 Jersey City, New Jersey

• Completed 60 clinical hours performing home health services on patients of a variety of ages and conditions, including prenatal and postnatal care. • Developed new mom instructional videos on breastfeeding and bathing.

9/2020-11/2020 Eastman, New Jersey

• Performed patient care duties on a busy 62-bed pediatric unit. • Developed nursing care plans on 2-4 patients per day. • Completed 75 clinical hours in Pediatrics. • Rotated onto pediatric burn unit.

1/2020-5/2020 Eastman, New Jersey

• Provided nursing care ER, ICU, CCU, and adult burn unit. • Completed 90 hours total of critical care clinical hours.

11/2019-12/2019 Eastman, New Jersey

• Completed 30 psychiatric clinical hours at a state prison on both men’s and women’s units. • Completed psychiatric evaluations and instituted and monitored mental health treatment plans on 1-3 patients per day.

9/2019-10/2019 Eastman, New Jersey

• Completed 60 outpatient hours rotating between units for women’s health, labor and delivery and NICU, PICU, and newborn nursery. • Achieved 100% on clinical skills and knowledge testing. • Developed competency checklist for pre- and post-natal teaching of pregnant women and new moms. • Established support reference material for new mom packet.

1/2019- 5/2019 Eastman, New Jersey

• Performed basic adult nursing care in a busy 575-bed hospital with 2-4 patients daily. • Completed 100 hours total of med-surg clinical hours in the hospital and adjoining rehabilitation center.

Swim Instructor and Lifeguard

5/2017-Present Jersey City, New Jersey

• Graduated first in nursing class with a 3.95 GPA • Received 4.0 in all clinical rotations • Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society • Outstanding Nursing Student Award • Scholarship for swimming • Scholarship for academic excellence

Extra-Curricular Activities

• Division I swimming all 4 years in college

Example #5: Resume of Lynn Horton

Lynn horton.

• Performed new mom, baby and labor and delivery patient care duties on a 50-bed women’s health unit. • Completed 75 clinical hours in obstetrics.

• Performed patient care duties on a busy 20-bed pediatric unit. • Developed nursing care plans on 2-4 patients per week. • Rotated onto pediatric oncology unit to care for 1-2 oncology patients per day. • Completed 75 clinical hours in Pediatrics.

• Provided nursing care in ER, ICU, and CCU units. • Completed 96 hours total of critical care clinical hours.

• Completed 30 psychiatric clinical hours at a 40-bed detox and substance abuse facility. • Completed psychiatric evaluations and instituted and monitored mental health treatment plans on 2-3 patients per day. • Assisted nursing and psychiatric staff with detox and substance abuse treatment and therapy.

• Completed 30 outpatient hours in a home health agency to include care for adults and children with cancer.

• Performed basic nursing care in a 600-bed community hospital with 2-4 patients daily. • Completed 100 hours total of med-surg clinical hours.

Certified Nurse Assistant

• Provided comfort and basic care to adult patients with cancer.

• Graduated Magna Cum Laude • Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society • Award for future nurse in excellence and scholarship

Volunteer and Extra-curricular Activities

• Served as a companion and nurse’s aide to a friend dying of cancer • Division III university softball player

Example #6: Resume of Paul Linney

Paul linney.

1/2021-4/2021 Tampa, Florida

• Performed new mom, baby and labor and delivery patient care duties on a 30-bed birthing center. • Performed basic nursing and prenatal care to walk-in women’s health center. • Completed 75 clinical hours in obstetrics and women’s health.

9/2020-11/2020 Tampa, Florida

• Performed patient care duties on a busy 38-bed pediatric unit. • Developed nursing care plans on 2-3 patients per week. • Completed 75 clinical hours in Pediatrics.

1/2020-5/2020 Tampa, Florida

• Provided nursing care in ER, ICU, and CCU units. • Completed 90 hours total of critical care clinical hours.

10/2019-12/2019 Tampa, Florida

• Completed 30 psychiatric clinical hours on a 62-bed psychiatric unit, which included detox and substance abuse treatment. • Completed psychiatric evaluations and instituted and monitored mental health treatment plans on 2-4 patients per day. • Assisted nursing and psychiatric staff with detox and substance abuse treatment and therapy. • Achieved 100% for clinical rotation. • Selected as team leader 5 out of 8 weeks on unit. • The Nurses and the preceptor remarked weekly about comfort level and ease with working with psychiatric patients.

9/2019-10/2019 St. Pete, Florida

• Completed 30 outpatient hours in a community center for at-risk youth. • Held group sessions for abused and traumatized teens. • Met individually with 2 patients per week for individual counseling and psychiatric sessions and care.

1/2019-5/2019 Tampa, Florida

• Performed basic nursing care in a 300-bed community hospital with 2-4 patients daily. • Completed 100 hours total of med-surg clinical hours.

VOLUNTEER AND EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

• Boys Club of Clearwater • Paxton Ministries Soup Kitchen • Special Olympics

HOW TO WRITE AN EXCEPTIONAL NEW GRAD RN RESUME?

1. proper format.

• Your name and contact information at the top of the page • Easy to read (not fancy) fonts such as New Times Roman, Arial, and Calibri • Font size 11 or12 • Stay consistent in fonts and style types • Be concise • No abbreviations or slang

2. Summary or objective

• Professional goals • Name of unit and institution where you are applying • Nursing skills and qualities pertinent to the position • Degrees and professional certifications

3. Licenses and credentialing

• The full name of your license or certification • Institution or body that issued license

4. Education

• Official school name • Location of the school • Dates you attended or graduated • Degree that you completed

5. Clinical rotations

• The type of the clinical rotation • Dates of the rotation and total hours completed • Name of institution (and city/state) of clinical • Name of unit you worked on

6. Work history

• Position held, then the name of the company/organization where you worked and the city and state with starting and ending date of hire • In a few words, describe the job

7. Volunteerism

• Church bake sales, nursery work, chicken BBQ worker, soup kitchen, and vacation bible school assistant • Hospital candy striper • Homecoming committee • Musical lighting and props • Prepped dinners for a homeless shelter • Assistant to professor • Staffed nursing department booth for college fairs • Blood pressure checks for health fairs • Assisted with blood drives on campus

8. Honors and awards

9. skills/language summary, 10. appropriate length, 11. match your resume to the job, 12. proofread, 7 common mistakes to avoid when writing your new grad nursing resume, 1. not including non-work experience-, 2. being too modest-, 3. too wordy-, 4. not personalized-, 5. leaving out accomplishments-, 6. not customizing-, 7. not proofing-, 3 consequences of a poorly written new grad rn resume, 1. you may never get an interview-, 2. your resume sets the stage-, 3. you may receive lower compensation-, my final thoughts, frequently asked questions answered by our expert, 1. what is the difference between new grad nurse resume and new grad nurse cv, 2. as a new grad nurse, when should i write my resume, 3. do i need a different resume for each new grad nursing job i apply to, 4. how long is my new grad nursing resume good for, 5. how many words should a resume be for a new graduate nurse, 6. how much time does it take to write an exceptional resume for a new grad nurse, 7. what is the best resume format for new grad nurses, 8. should i put my gpa on my new grad nurse resume, 9. should skills be on my new grad nurse resume, 10. what is a good objective for a new grad nursing resume, 11. how to list registered nurse license on my new grad nursing resume.

• Full name of nursing license • The body that issued the license • Expiration date

12. Should I Put Clinical Experience On My New Grad Nursing Resume?

13. should i include preceptorship on my new grad nursing resume, 14. can i ask someone else to write my new graduate nurse resume, 15. is it a good idea to use ready templates to write my new graduate nurse resume, 16. are there any online apps or tools that make writing a good resume for a new graduate nurse easy.

New Grad Nurse Resume Example (W/ Templates & Tips!)

You're an aspiring nurse, and you just graduated!

You've mastered the art of patient care, so now you’re out and looking for your first job as a registered nurse.

But when it comes to writing your resume, you're self-diagnosed with writer's block.

It's ironic that after so many detailed reports you've tackled during nursing school, you just can’t seem to show off your skills and experience.

Just take a deep breath.

Preparing a resume might not be as exciting as your first clinical rotation, but it doesn’t have to be difficult.

With the right pointers, you can create the perfect new grad nurse resume!

And guess what? We're here to guide you every step of the way.

In this article, we’re going to cover:

• What an Amazing New Grad Nurse Resume Example Looks Like
• 8 Steps to Writing a Job-Winning Resume as a Recently Graduated Nurse
• The 67 Top Nursing Skills for 2024

...and so much more!

Ready to begin? Let’s jump right in.

New Grad Nurse Resume Example

That’s a spot-on example of a resume for a recently graduated nurse.

Here’s what it gets right:

• Uses the reverse-chronological resume format. This recent nursing grad has a resume that shows their newest experience first and then works its way back, so hiring managers can have a clear look at their experience.
• Starts with a strong resume objective. The nursing resume example above includes a brief paragraph in the header that catches employers’ attention and lets them know the candidate’s top skills, achievements, and professional aspirations.
• Only includes relevant contact information. Social media profiles aren’t appropriate for a nurse job application, so this candidate only lists her full name, phone number, email address, and location.
• Quantifies achievements. The candidate backs up their achievements with relevant data, which lets employers immediately see the benefit of hiring them.
• Expands on education. Since the candidate has just recently graduated, they elaborate on their education and how well-prepared they are for the role.
• Shows off in-demand skills. This new grad nurse resume makes sure the most relevant hard skills are in plain view, so hiring managers can easily see just what the candidate can do.
• Adds optional sections. The candidate leverages sections such as conferences and languages to make their resume stand out from other recently graduated nurses with similar skills and experience.
• Fits everything on one page. This new grad nurse resume uses every bit of space available to fit all the sections on one page.

8 Steps for a Great New Grad Nurse Resume

You know what a spot-on new graduate nurse resume includes, and now it’s your turn to write one.

Luckily, you just need to follow these easy steps:

#1. Choose a Resume Format

Before you can fill in the contents of your resume, you have to decide how it’s going to look.

Start by choosing the right resume format .

You have three main resume formats to choose from:

• Reverse-chronological (sometimes called chronological)
• Functional (sometimes called skill-based format)
• Combination (which blends elements of both)

For the vast majority of nursing graduates, the reverse-chronological resume format is the best choice.

This format shows your most recent work experience, skills, and accomplishments, which are what healthcare employers will want to see first.

It’s also hiring managers’ favorite resume format worldwide, so that should make it your first choice. 

Here's a quick glance:

Next, it’s time to perfect your resume layout .

Before a hiring manager reads your resume, they’re going to look at it. But if your resume is chaotic and hard on the eyes, it’ll probably get tossed aside.

Here’s how to make sure your new grad nurse resume leaves a great first impression:

• Adjust the margins. The margins on your document should be set to one inch on all sides so it doesn’t look too cluttered.
• Choose an appropriate font. Your resume’s font should be easy to read and stylish, but not overused. Skip Times New Roman and opt for something like Roboto instead.
• Set the font size. If the hiring manager has to squint to read your resume, they might just stop altogether. Use 10-12 pts for the body of your text and 14-16 pts for headings and section titles.
• Change the line spacing. To make sure your text isn’t too spaced out or overlapping, set the line spacing to 1.0 between text and 1.15 after subheadings.
• Send it in the right file format. Your new grad nurse resume should always be sent as a PDF. This way, your layout stays intact regardless of what device or software the hiring manager uses to open it.

Or Use a Professional Resume Template Instead

Starting your nurse resume from scratch takes a lot of effort.

You have to tweak the margins, adjust the line spacing, pick the best font, and make sure the sizes are uniform throughout your whole resume.

What if there was another way?

Just give any of our free resume templates a go and spare yourself the hassle.

Each of our templates is designed hand-in-hand with hiring managers from around the world, all to make sure your resume meets industry standards easily fits on one page, and lets you show off your personality.

Check for yourself how one of our resume templates compares to a standard text editor template:

#2. Fill In Your Contact Details

Once you’ve taken care of your resume format and layout, you can start filling in its contents.

Your contact information is the easiest section to fill out. All you need to do is make sure it’s factual – this isn’t the place to be inattentive. A single typo in your phone number or email address could cost you an opportunity.

Here’s what you need to include in this section:

• Full Name. (E.g. Jessica Smith)
• Professional Title. Make sure your resume’s professional title matches the specific nursing job you’re applying for. (E.g. Pediatric Nurse)
• Phone Number. If you're aiming for a job abroad, don't forget to include the dial code at the front of your number.
• Email Address. Ideally, use a combination of your first and last name. Quirky email addresses from high school won't cut it. (e.g. [email protected] is great, but [email protected] isn’t.)
• Location. List your city and state/country. If you’re willing to relocate for a job, specify it somewhere in your resume.

Jessica Smith - Registered Nurse +1 234 567 8910 [email protected] San Francisco, CA

Jessie Smith, Nurse 1234 567 8910 [email protected] Cali, USA

#3. Write a Convincing Resume Summary (or Objective)

Hiring managers go through hundreds of resumes daily, and they rarely spend more than a few seconds looking at a single resume . So if you want your new grad nurse resume to make an impression, you need to have an elevator pitch ready.

That would be the brief paragraph in your resume’s header, where you summarize some of your top skills, achievements, and other qualifications that make you right for the role.

Depending on your level of experience, here’s what you can write:

• Resume summary. If you have any clinical experience or internships from your time at university, a resume summary is the ideal choice. It provides a snapshot of your hands-on experience, primary nursing skills, and academic achievements.
• Resume objective. For fresh nursing graduates with limited experience, a resume objective is the way to go. This focuses on your nursing skills, relevant academic accomplishments, and your passion for patient care.

Here's a sample for a new grad nurse with some hands-on experience:

• Committed and compassionate Registered Nurse, seeking a position with Hospital X. With over two years of clinical experience during studies, skilled in patient care, medical documentation, and emergency response. CPR and First Aid certified. Eager to support a team in delivering patient-centered care.

For those just stepping into the nursing profession, here's a resume objective for a student with no experience :

• Dedicated Nursing Graduate, eager to join Hospital Y. Proficient in patient assessments, foundational nursing procedures, and effective communication. Motivated to contribute positively to patient outcomes and grow professionally in a dynamic healthcare environment.

#4. List Your Work Experience

The work experience section of your new grad nurse resume is what hiring managers will pay attention to, even if you're fresh out of school.

Presentation is key, so let's make sure yours is on point.

Here’s how to structure this section:

• List in reverse chronological order. Since you're newly graduated, start with your most recent clinical rotations or internships and then any related roles.
• Add the name of the facility. Specify the name of the hospital, clinic, or healthcare facility, and then its location.
• Include dates. Stick to the mm/yyyy format for clarity.
• Describe responsibilities and achievements. Highlight five to six key examples from your most recent experience in bullet points. Older roles might only need two to three.

But if you’re a recent nursing graduate, just listing your experience the right way isn’t enough.

You need to make it shine. Here’s how:

• Tailor your experience to the job. Look at the job ad and compare it to your experience so far. Your recent pediatric rotation might be more relevant for the position of school nurse than that summer you spent as a lifeguard.
• Focus on your impact. The hiring manager knows what a typical nursing student does, so you won’t impress them that easily. Instead, wow them by focusing on the difference you made during your rotations, such as improving patient outcomes or boosting morale.
• Quantify whenever possible. Put numbers next to any achievement you can. Quantifying your achievements can change the generic "assisted with patient care," into the more impressive "aided in the care of 10-15 patients daily under supervision."
• Use strong verbs. Instead of just "helped" or "worked", use powerful words like "administered", "collaborated", or "monitored" to show you as a proactive worker.

Check out this example for a nursing graduate:

Nursing Intern

St. Peter's Hospital

Seattle, WA

05/2022 - 09/2022

• Collaborated with a team of 5 registered nurses in the cardiac unit, assisting in the care of 10-12 patients daily.
• Administered medications under supervision, achieving a 100% accuracy rate throughout the internship.
• Assisted in patient documentation, updating medical histories and vital signs for over 250 patients during the rotation.
• Monitored and reported changes in patient conditions, resulting in timely interventions on several occasions.
• Received commendation from the head nurse for dedication and keen attention to detail during high-pressure situations.

What If I Don’t Have Work Experience?

Entering the world of healthcare as a fresh graduate nurse might seem overwhelming, especially if your resume feels light on professional experience.

However, your nursing resume can absolutely reflect your dedication and skills, even as you’re entering the field!

It's all about highlighting relevant experience, even if it isn’t professional.

Here are some examples you can choose from:

• Volunteering at health camps or local clinics
• Personal projects related to healthcare
• Academic projects related to patient care
• University health drives or campaigns

For example, if you volunteered at a health camp during your summer break, that’s an invaluable hands-on experience that can elevate your resume as a recently graduated nurse.

Here's an example:

Nurse Intern & Health Educator

Springfield Health Camp

06/2022 - 08/2022

• Volunteered in patient care, assisting registered nurses in administering basic treatments and wound care.
• Educated local community members about preventive healthcare measures, receiving positive feedback for clear communication.
• Assisted in organizing health seminars, ensuring informative sessions on nutrition, and hygiene.
• Collaborated with fellow interns to gather patient feedback, leading to improved patient education materials.
• Partnered with local schools to conduct health check-ups, providing basic healthcare knowledge to students.

#5. Add Your Most Vital Nursing Skills

Nursing is more than just administering medication or checking vitals. The job requires a broad range of skills , and the ones you add to your new grad nurse resume should align with the specific nursing position you're after.

Your skills section shows potential employers your clinical competencies and the depth of your training. If you tailor this section right, they’ll see how prepared you are to step into the role.

Here are some tips for writing a great skills section:

• Tailor them to the ad. Does the job description mention certain requirements for candidates? Whether it's wound care, patient education, or managing specific health conditions, add the skills you have to your resume.
• Research what skills you need. The world of healthcare is ever-evolving and the key to success is ongoing learning. Stay updated on patient care guidelines, innovative treatment methods, or emerging healthcare technologies.
• List hard and soft skills separately. Your new grad nurse resume should keep soft skills and hard skills neatly separate. This way, employers can find exactly what skills they’re looking for at a glance.

You've got the know-how to list your nursing skills.

All that’s left is to figure out which you should include on your resume.

Take a look at this list of the 67 most in-demand hard and soft skills for recently graduated nurses to get started!

67 Most In-Demand New Grad Nurse Skills

51 new grad nurse hard skills.

• Aseptic technique
• Electronic Health Records (EHR)
• EPIC Systems
• Record keeping
• Patient assessment
• Wound dressing
• IV insertion and management
• Medication administration
• First Aid and CPR
• Basic Life Support (BLS)
• Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
• Catheter insertion and care
• Infection control
• Vaccination administration
• Pain management
• Patient education
• Care and discharge planning
• ECG interpretation
• Emergency response
• Surgical assistance
• Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)
• Oxygen therapy
• Endotracheal intubation
• Fluid and electrolyte balance
• Palliative care
• Ventilator management
• SOAP note documentation
• Patient charting
• Patient transport
• Tracheostomy care
• Gastrostomy feedings
• Diabetes management
• Hemodynamic monitoring
• Sterilization techniques
• Seizure precautions
• Ostomy care
• Orthopedic casting and splinting
• Isolation procedures
• Defibrillation
• HIPAA compliance
• Manual blood pressure measurement
• Nasogastric (NG) tube placement
• Critical care
• Telemetry monitoring
• Mobility assistance

16 New Grad Nurse Soft Skills

• Communication
• Adaptability
• Critical thinking
• Time management
• Problem-solving
• Active listening
• Self-awareness
• Stress management
• Interpersonal skills
• Organizational skills
• Conflict re solution

#6. Elaborate on Your Education

In any resume, work experience and skills speak louder than academic credentials. Usually, this section only gets a passing mention.

However, when you’re a newly graduated nurse, you might want to dive into more details.

If you don’t have as much hands-on experience as your peers, your education section is where your resume can shine.

Here’s how you should format the basics:

• Degree Name. (E.g. Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
• University Name. (E.g. Metropolitan University of Health Sciences)
• Location. (E.g. Los Angeles, CA)
• Years Attended. If you haven’t graduated yet, don’t worry about it. Over 74% of new graduate nurses have a job offer lined up before graduation. Instead of using the yyyy - yyyy format, you can specify your expected graduation date. (E.g. Expected graduation: May 2024)
• Optional Details. List any relevant coursework, such as classes, projects, or clinical rotations, that’s relevant to the nurse position you’re applying for.

The goal here is to paint a clear picture of how your studies have prepared you for the hands-on work in the world of nursing. Everything you add should be relevant, so you should skip your high school education.

Here’s an example of how your education section might look:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Metropolitan University of Health Sciences

Los Angeles, CA

08/2019 - 06/2023

• Relevant Coursework: Pediatric Nursing, Critical Care Nursing, and Nursing Ethics.
• Research Project: "The Impact of Patient-Nurse Ratios on Care Quality."
• Clinical Rotations: Completed practical training in Pediatric, ICU, and Emergency Nursing departments.

#7. Leverage Optional Sections

Once you’ve come to the end of your new grad nurse resume, you have some leftover space.

This is a great opportunity for you to add optional sections, which can take your resume to the next level. These sections can be the cherry on top, giving potential employers deeper insight into who you are both professionally and personally.

Here are some sections you can choose from:

• Licenses and certifications. The more qualifications you have, the more commitment and readiness for nursing your resume shows.
• Awards. Any scholarships, academic honors, or nursing-related competitions you've won are good for showing off on your new grad nurse resume.
• Memberships. Being a part of professional nursing organizations gives you credibility and shows your drive to stay updated with industry trends.
• Languages. Hospitals and clinics appreciate nurses who can communicate with diverse patient populations, so speaking multiple languages is a huge plus.
• Publications or conferences. If you've written healthcare-related articles or created presentations for nursing school or even conferences, list them! It shows expertise and enthusiasm for particular subjects.
• Hobbies and interests. This section gives a glimpse into your personality. Activities like team sports can show teamwork skills and physical stamina, while interests like medical literature or meditation can show an interest in continuous learning and stress management.
• Florence Nightingale Academic Scholarship State Nursing School - 2022
• Top Performer American Red Cross First Aid Competition - October 2021

Memberships:

• National Student Nurses' Association (NSNA) Member - 2020

Always be sure to keep the optional sections you add to your new grad nurse resume relevant. Your interests in cooking or experience in the university drama club probably won’t do.

If you’re based in the USA, you should always include your nursing license number on your resume. But in countries where Nursing graduates are automatically registered with the board, there’s no need to add this credential.

#8. Attach an Equally Well-Made Cover Letter

Once you’ve completed your resume, your work isn’t done yet.

The last step on your resume-writing journey is writing a cover letter .

In reality, not writing a cover letter can significantly lower your chances of getting an interview since hiring managers expect to get cover letters .

There’s no need to worry, though! Your new grad nurse resume can be paired with a matching cover letter in no time.

Just take a look at what a great cover letter for a recently graduated nurse looks like:

You know the drill - you’ve seen a great cover letter, so now it’s time to make one yourself.

Follow our cover letter tips to nail it:

• Include the right contact information. Your new grad nurse cover letter should have the exact same contact information as your resume. Your full name, phone number, professional email address, and general location are enough, followed by the hiring manager’s contact information.
• Address your cover letter. Don’t skip the greeting or use something generic like “To whom it may concern”. Instead, do a bit of research and address the hiring manager by name to make a strong impression.
• Start with a strong opening. Your first paragraph should always include why you’re writing and what skills you can offer the employer, so they’ll want to read more.
• Expand on the details. This is the place to get creative! Elaborate on anything that makes you perfect for the job, but don’t just repeat what’s on your resume. Offer the hiring manager insight they wouldn’t get from just reading your new grad nurse resume.
• Finish it appropriately. Once you’re ready to wrap it up, invite the hiring manager to do something, like contact you. Then add an appropriate closing line and sign your name.

Key Takeaways

And that’s a wrap!

Now you’ll be well on your way to delivering extraordinary patient care.

But before you pick out your new scrubs, let’s recap what we talked about:

• Always add an eye-catching paragraph at the top of your new grad nurse resume. A resume summary is a great way to catch the hiring manager’s attention.
• Don’t worry too much about not having enough professional experience. Hiring managers won’t expect a fresh graduate to have Dr. House’s list of achievements.
• List your soft skills separately from your hard skills so hiring managers can easily find what they’re looking for, and make sure to tailor any skills on your resume to the job ad.
• While your education is usually less important than your hands-on experience, don’t be afraid to give more detail if you’re very inexperienced. It still shows off your medical know-how and it’s better than having blank space.
• Any licenses and certifications are a great addition to your resume as a newly graduated nurse, so make sure to add them right after your most important sections are filled in.

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New Grad Nurse Resume Examples: Proven To Get You Hired In 2024

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• New Grad Nurse Resume Tips

New Grad Nurse Resume Template

Download in google doc, word or pdf for free. designed to pass resume screening software in 2022., new grad nurse resume sample.

As a new grad nurse, you're entering an ever-evolving healthcare field with unique challenges. Your resume should not only showcase your nursing skills but also emphasize your adaptability and eagerness to learn. Employers are looking for candidates who can adapt to changes in the industry and effectively communicate with patients and colleagues alike. Healthcare organizations are increasingly focusing on patient satisfaction and outcomes, so highlighting your clinical experience and ability to work in various settings will position you as a strong candidate for such roles. When writing your resume, it’s vital to be specific about your nursing education, clinical rotations, and any relevant certifications.

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Recruiter Insight: Why this resume works in 2022

Tips to help you write your new grad nurse resume in 2024,    highlight clinical rotations and experiences.

Detail the clinical rotations you completed during your nursing program, describing the type of units you worked on and the skills you gained. Showcase any experiences in diverse or high-acuity settings to demonstrate your adaptability and competence.

   Emphasize soft skills and teamwork

Since new grad nurses often work in interdisciplinary teams, emphasize your soft skills, such as communication, empathy, and collaboration. Use specific examples from clinical rotations or team projects to showcase your ability to work effectively with others.

As a new graduate nurse, you're entering a highly competitive job market where employers are seeking the best candidates to fill their open positions. In recent years, the nursing industry has seen an increasing demand for skilled nurses, but also a higher number of job applicants. To stand out, it's crucial that your resume effectively showcases your education, clinical experience, and key strengths. Crafting a tailored resume will not only help you land interviews, but also demonstrate your professionalism and commitment to a career in nursing. Resumes are particularly important in the nursing field, as hiring managers need to assess your clinical competencies, ability to work under pressure, and adaptability. Both tactical and strategic recommendations can help you create a resume that highlights your skills and makes you an attractive candidate for potential employers.

As a new grad nurse, you might lack extensive work experience, so it's important to emphasize your clinical rotations and any hands-on experiences you've had during your education. Include the facility's name, department, and a brief description of the patient population and any specialized skills you practiced.

   Focus on soft skills and certifications

While technical skills are essential, nursing is also about communication, empathy, and teamwork. Highlight your soft skills, such as active listening, problem-solving, and time management, throughout your resume. Additionally, mention any relevant certifications (e.g., BLS, ACLS) that showcase your commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

As a new graduate nurse, you’ll face a steep learning curve, so be prepared to learn and adapt on the go. Without much professional work history on your resume, you should highlight any nursing experience you’ve gained during your studies, including student nursing placements, clinical practicums, and any experience as a technician or extern.

   Includes student nursing and practicum experience

As a new grad, hiring managers aren’t expecting you to have extensive work experience. Any experience you’ve gained as a nursing student or early in your career can go on your resume in place of paid work experience. Simply list your practicums and student nursing experience the same way you would any job, using action verbs to highlight your accomplishments.

   Lists specific skills relevant to nursing

Even graduate nurses need a firm grounding in essential skills. When it comes to your skills section, be explicit about the skills you’re proficient in, but don’t feel the need to list every skill you’ve ever learned — choose the top ten or so skills that fit the specific job you’re applying for and list those.

Nursing Graduate Resume Sample

Junior registered nurse resume sample, entry-level rn resume sample, registered nurse resume sample, entry level registered nurse resume sample.

As a hiring manager who has recruited nurses at top healthcare organizations like Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and Cleveland Clinic, I've reviewed hundreds of resumes from new grad nurses. In this article, I'll share insider tips on what makes a strong new grad nurse resume stand out. These tips come from my firsthand experience and conversations with other hiring managers in the field.

   Highlight your clinical experience

As a new grad nurse, your clinical experience is one of the most important things to showcase on your resume. This includes any clinical rotations, internships, or externships you completed during your nursing program.

When describing your clinical experience, be specific about:

• The units you worked in (e.g. ICU, ER, pediatrics)
• The number of patients you cared for per shift
• Any specific skills or procedures you performed (e.g. wound care, medication administration)
• Any notable accomplishments or positive feedback you received

By providing concrete details and metrics, you give hiring managers a clear picture of your hands-on experience and capabilities as a new nurse.

   Emphasize your licensure and certifications

In addition to your nursing degree, be sure to prominently feature your RN license and any relevant certifications on your resume. This shows employers that you have met the necessary requirements to practice as a registered nurse.

Some examples of certifications to include:

• Basic Life Support (BLS)
• Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
• Trauma Nurse Core Course (TNCC)

If you have any specialty certifications, such as in critical care or emergency nursing, definitely highlight those as well. They demonstrate your expertise and commitment to professional development.

   Showcase your leadership and teamwork skills

As a nurse, strong leadership and teamwork abilities are essential. Employers want to see evidence of these soft skills on your resume.

Think about experiences where you:

• Collaborated with a multidisciplinary care team
• Took on a leadership role in a group project
• Mentored or precepted fellow nursing students
• Participated in quality improvement initiatives

Even if you don't have formal leadership titles, you can still showcase your leadership potential through your actions and accomplishments. Avoid simply listing soft skills without context, like this:

• Strong leadership skills
• Excellent communicator
• Team player

Instead, provide specific examples that illustrate those qualities in action.

   Include relevant volunteer and extracurricular experience

As a new grad, you may not have extensive paid work experience in nursing yet. However, any relevant volunteer work or extracurricular activities can still strengthen your resume.

Some examples to consider:

• Volunteering at a local clinic or health fair
• Participating in a medical mission trip
• Serving as a board member for a student nursing organization
• Organizing community health education events

These experiences showcase your passion for healthcare and your ability to make a positive impact outside of a formal work setting. They can also help you develop valuable skills that transfer to your nursing career.

   Tailor your resume to the specific job

One mistake I often see new grad nurses make is using the same generic resume for every job application. To really catch a hiring manager's attention, you need to customize your resume to the specific role and employer.

Before applying, carefully review the job description and research the organization. Then, look for ways to tailor your resume content accordingly:

• Mirror the language and keywords from the job posting
• Emphasize any skills or experience that directly match the job requirements
• Mention any connections or interest in the employer's mission and values

For example, if applying to a pediatric nursing position, you might include a tailored resume summary like: "Compassionate and dedicated new grad nurse with a strong foundation in pediatric care. Experienced in caring for children of all ages through clinical rotations at X Children's Hospital and volunteer work with Y Youth Organization. Committed to providing family-centered nursing care that promotes optimal child health and development."

By taking the time to customize your resume, you show employers that you are truly interested in and qualified for that particular opportunity.

   Highlight your nursing education and academic achievements

Your nursing education is the foundation of your qualifications as a new grad nurse. Make sure to feature your nursing degree prominently on your resume, including:

• The full name of your degree (e.g. Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
• The name and location of your nursing school
• Your graduation date (or expected graduation date)
• Any honors or distinctions (e.g. magna cum laude, Dean's List)

In addition to your degree, you can also showcase other academic achievements, such as:

• Relevant coursework or specialized tracks
• Research projects or publications
• Scholarships or awards
• Study abroad or international nursing experiences

These details paint a fuller picture of your nursing education and demonstrate your academic excellence. Just be sure to keep the focus on achievements that are directly relevant to your nursing career.

Writing Your New Grad Nurse Resume: Section By Section

  summary.

A resume summary for a new grad nurse is optional, but it can be a great way to provide context and highlight your most relevant skills and experiences. While an objective statement is outdated and should be avoided, a well-crafted summary can help you stand out from other candidates and showcase your unique value proposition.

When writing your summary, focus on the key qualifications and traits that make you an ideal fit for the nursing role you're targeting. Avoid repeating information that's already covered in other sections of your resume, and keep it concise – aim for no more than 3-4 sentences or bullet points.

To learn how to write an effective resume summary for your New Grad Nurse resume, or figure out if you need one, please read New Grad Nurse Resume Summary Examples , or New Grad Nurse Resume Objective Examples .

1. Tailor your summary to the nursing job

When crafting your new grad nurse resume summary, it's crucial to align it with the specific requirements and preferences of the healthcare facility you're applying to. Research the organization's mission, values, and the type of patients they serve, and incorporate relevant keywords and phrases into your summary.

For example, if you're applying to a pediatric nursing position, you might write:

Compassionate and detail-oriented new grad nurse with a passion for providing high-quality care to pediatric patients. Experienced in assessing vital signs, administering medications, and collaborating with healthcare teams to develop personalized treatment plans. Committed to creating a positive and nurturing environment for children and their families.

In contrast, a generic summary that fails to target the specific nursing role might read:

Hardworking and dedicated new grad nurse seeking an entry-level position in a healthcare facility. Skilled in patient care, communication, and teamwork. Eager to apply my knowledge and learn from experienced nurses.

2. Highlight your clinical experience and skills

As a new grad nurse, your clinical rotations and any relevant work experience are valuable assets to showcase in your summary. Emphasize the specific skills and knowledge you've gained that are most applicable to the nursing position you're seeking.

Strong examples might look like:

• Completed clinical rotations in med-surg, pediatrics, and emergency care, honing skills in patient assessment, wound care, and medication administration
• Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop and implement patient care plans, ensuring optimal outcomes and patient satisfaction

On the other hand, weak examples that lack specificity and relevance might include:

• Gained experience in various healthcare settings through clinical rotations
• Worked well with others to provide patient care

  Experience

As a new grad nurse, your work experience section may feel light. But with the right approach, you can still showcase your skills and potential. Use these tips to write a compelling work experience section that will catch the eye of hiring managers.

1. Highlight your clinical rotations

Your clinical rotations are a goldmine of relevant experience. Treat each rotation as a separate 'job' entry.

Instead of just listing your responsibilities, highlight your achievements and the skills you developed:

• Completed 12-week rotation in pediatric ICU, caring for up to 5 patients per shift
• Collaborated with interdisciplinary team to develop and implement patient care plans
• Educated patients and families on post-operative care, improving patient satisfaction scores by 10%

Quantify your experience where possible. Metrics help hiring managers understand the scope of your responsibilities and achievements.

2. Showcase your non-clinical experience

Don't neglect your non-clinical experience. Jobs like server, tutor, or volunteer can be relevant if you frame them right.

Avoid a laundry list of duties like:

• Took customer orders
• Delivered food to tables
• Handled cash transactions

Instead, emphasize the transferable skills you gained:

• Provided excellent customer service in fast-paced restaurant, memorizing menu items and making personalized recommendations
• Resolved customer complaints tactfully, de-escalating tense situations
• Trained 5 new servers on POS system and service standards

Think about skills like communication, teamwork, and attention to detail which are valuable in nursing too.

3. Use strong nursing action verbs

Start each bullet point with a strong action verb that showcases your nursing skills. Avoid bland, overused verbs like 'assisted' or 'helped'.

Some powerful nursing verbs include:

• Collaborated

Monitored vital signs of post-operative patients, alerting physician to signs of complications.

These verbs paint a picture of you actively contributing to patient care.

  Education

The education section is a critical component of your new grad nurse resume. It's where you showcase your academic achievements and nursing-specific training. Here are some key tips to make your education section stand out to potential employers.

1. Put your education section at the top

As a new grad nurse, your education is likely your strongest selling point. Place your education section at the top of your resume, just below your contact information and resume summary (if you have one).

Here's an example of what your education section might look like:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Graduation: May 2023 GPA: 3.8

2. Include relevant coursework and clinical rotations

As a new grad, you may not have a lot of professional nursing experience yet. That's okay! You can bolster your education section by including relevant coursework and clinical rotations.

Bad example:

• Completed coursework in various subjects

Instead, be specific and highlight courses and rotations that are directly applicable to the nursing role you're seeking:

• Relevant Coursework: Advanced Health Assessment, Pharmacology, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Pediatric Nursing, Psychiatric Nursing
• Clinical Rotations: Completed 800+ clinical hours in diverse settings, including acute care, long-term care, and community health

3. List your nursing license and certifications

If you've already obtained your nursing license, be sure to list it in your education section. You can also include any relevant certifications you've earned.

Registered Nurse (RN), California Board of Registered Nursing License Number: 123456 Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification, American Heart Association Expiration: May 2024

If you haven't taken your NCLEX yet, you can list your anticipated license:

Registered Nurse (RN), California Board of Registered Nursing NCLEX-RN scheduled for June 2023

4. Keep it concise if you're an experienced nurse

If you're a more seasoned nurse, your education section can be brief. Employers will be more interested in your professional experience at this stage in your career.

Poor example for a senior nurse:

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Specialization in Nurse Leadership Georgetown University Graduation: May 2012 GPA: 3.9 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) University of Virginia Graduation: May 2008 GPA: 3.7 Relevant Coursework: ...

Instead, keep it concise:

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), Georgetown University Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), University of Virginia

  Skills

When writing your skills section as a new grad nurse, focus on the hard skills and technical proficiencies that make you qualified for the role. Hiring managers and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) will scan this section to ensure you meet the basic requirements. Keep it concise and highlight your most relevant and impressive skills.

1. List your nursing credentials and certifications

As a new grad nurse, your skills section should prominently feature your nursing degree, licensure, and any specialty certifications you've earned. These are the core qualifications that demonstrate you meet the legal requirements to practice as a nurse.

Here's an example of how to list your credentials:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Registered Nurse (RN), Florida, License #12345 Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Certification

2. Highlight your clinical skills and specialties

Recruiters want to see the specific clinical skills you've developed through your nursing education and any internships or practicums. Focus on skills that match the job description and showcase your areas of expertise.

Avoid simply listing 'Clinical Skills' with no details, like this:

Clinical Skills

Instead, provide specific examples of your clinical proficiencies:

Patient assessment and triage Medication administration Wound care and dressing changes Inserting and monitoring IVs Telemetry and vital signs monitoring Assisting with diagnostic procedures

3. Include any healthcare technologies you're proficient in

Modern healthcare relies heavily on technology, from electronic health records (EHR) systems to patient monitoring devices. Showcase your comfort with these tools to stand out to employers.

Organize your technical skills into categories to make them easy to scan:

Electronic Health Records: Epic, Cerner, Meditech Medical Devices: Infusion pumps, Ventilators, Defibrillators Diagnostic Tools: 12-lead EKG, Bladder scanner, Doppler ultrasound

If you have experience with older or less common technologies, consider leaving those out. Focus on current, widely-used tools that demonstrate you're prepared to hit the ground running in a new role.

4. Optimize your skills section for Applicant Tracking Systems

Many healthcare employers use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to automatically screen resumes for relevant skills and keywords. To pass these filters, make sure your skills section includes terms from the job description.

For example, if a job posting mentions 'patient education,' don't just list 'patient care' as a skill. Match the language from the job ad as closely as possible, like this:

Patient and family education Discharge planning and instructions

However, avoid keyword stuffing or listing skills you don't actually have. Hiring managers can tell when a candidate is just trying to game the system.

Skills For New Grad Nurse Resumes

Here are examples of popular skills from New Grad Nurse job descriptions that you can include on your resume.

• Nursing Management
• Customer Service
• Patient Education
• Healthcare Information Technology (HIT)
• Clinical Research
• Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
• Healthcare Management
• Emergency Nursing

Skills Word Cloud For New Grad Nurse Resumes

This word cloud highlights the important keywords that appear on New Grad Nurse job descriptions and resumes. The bigger the word, the more frequently it appears on job postings, and the more likely you should include it in your resume.

How to use these skills?

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New Grad Nurse Resumes

• Template #1: New Grad Nurse
• Template #2: New Grad Nurse
• Template #3: New Grad Nurse
• Template #4: Nursing Graduate
• Template #5: Junior Registered Nurse
• Template #6: Entry-Level RN
• Template #7: New Grad Nurse
• Template #8: Registered Nurse
• Template #9: Entry Level Registered Nurse
• Skills for New Grad Nurse Resumes
• Free New Grad Nurse Resume Review
• Other Medical Resumes
• New Grad Nurse Interview Guide
• New Grad Nurse Sample Cover Letters
• Alternative Careers to a Nursing Manager
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3 New Grad RN Resume Examples Proven to Work in 2024

New Grad RN Resume

Clean new grad rn resume, modern new grad rn resume.

• New Grad RN Resume Writing 101

That new diploma is looking nice and shiny, and so are your basic medical skills! You’re in the position to perform all the usual duties of a Registered Nurse, including patient exams, routine procedures and treatments, and offer assistance to more experienced medical personnel.

But what  resume template  will let you turn your fresh graduate experience into something that appeals to recruiters so that you can start drawing samples and completing patient questionnaires ASAP?

Don’t worry! We’ve spent years helping people in medical roles, including aspiring graduates like you, and our three New Grad RN  resume examples  are bound to help you get things rolling!

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Related resume examples

• Med surg RN
• Nursing student

What Matters Most: Your Skills & Experience Sections

Your  job skills  section should include all kinds of stuff, from blood sample collection to patient documentation and note checking. Recruiters want to see that you’re equipped to do it all, whether you’re a new grad RN or not!

Keep each skill specific to your profession. Avoid generic terms like “communication” and instead go for something like “patient education” or “active listening” to convey your efficiency within  your  job role.

Being extra precise helps you avoid sounding bland in comparison with other candidates! After all, you want to stand out, and showing off your knowledge of vitals and essential life support will do that.

9 best new grad RN skills

• Patient Documentation
• Patient Education
• Blood Drawing
• IV Management
• Clinical Records
• Preventative Care
• Sample Processing
• Emergency Response

Sample new grad RN work experience bullet points

You’ve got some great  job skills —but how can you show your ability to apply them in a medical setting? This part can sometimes be tricky for new graduates, but you probably have more  relevant experiences  than you think.

Did you get the opportunity to shadow a doctor or LPN? Did you complete a related internship? You can also refer to unrelated jobs.

Unrelated jobs, such as that after-school stocking job you worked last semester, still build up skills that transfer well to the RN role. Think customer/patient service, stocking shelves vs. managing medical supply inventory, etc.

Just make sure you back your accomplishments with quantifiable data! Here are some examples of bullet points with good metrics for your impact:

• Visited patients, rotating wings weekly to spend at least 15 minutes with each patient, elevating personal rating to 4.8/5 stars
• Assisted patients with mobility, helping them follow physical therapy protocols under the supervision of three CNAs, improving recover results by 14%
• Answered patient call lights within 15 seconds and tended to patients’ needs or located an RN or doctor, depending on the intensity of the situation, achieving a 3 minute decrease in wait times
• Turned and positioned immobile patients safely with 0 incidents, maintaining proper body alignment and preventing 100% of bed sores

Top 5 Tips for Your New Grad RN Resume

• Sometimes, new grads get the urge to spruce up their resumes with fancy fonts and bright colors. Keep that to a minimum. You want to convey professionalism and prioritize legibility!
• We can’t stress enough that applicable RN-related skills can come from anywhere. You don’t have to have  job experience  in the medical field to launch your career! Think of transferable skills, like a cheerful bedside manner, that you gained from an internship, outreach initiative, or college project that relate to patient care.
• We have three new grad RN  resume templates  for you to try, and the one you pick should depend directly on the most impressive section you’re presenting. Got lucky with some relevant mentorship experience? Experience section to center stage! Are your skills and certifications jaw-dropping? Give them their own column.
• Don’t even think about leaving them out! If you have Basic Life Support (BLS), Certified Wound Treatment Associate (WTA-C), or Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) credentials, spotlight those. Certifications demonstrate your capabilities even if you haven’t had relevant  work experience  yet.
• A lot of people use a  cover letter generator  to reflect on experience points that don’t fit on their resumes. How does that time you assisted with a critical situation while volunteering at a nursing home make you a better fit for the company today?

Recruiters only have a few seconds to spare for each resume. So, keep to a  one-page resume ! And don’t worry about filling the page to the brim. Focus on leveraging your most powerful points instead of pulling in fluff.

Yes! Having more experienced professionals or college professors vouch for your promise as a new grad RN can bolster your credibility. Just make sure you attach them separately instead of trying to puzzle them into the resume.

You can include an especially impressive GPA, Dean’s List achievement, and any other academic awards you’ve obtained. Including these thoughtful details alongside your Bachelor’s in Nursing shows ambition!

Graduate Nurse Resume Example (Free Guide)

Create an graduate nurse resume that lands you the interview with our free examples and writing tips. use and customize our template and land an interview today..

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to craft the perfect graduate nurse resume. Whether you're a seasoned healthcare professional or a recent nursing school graduate, this guide will help you develop a powerful resume that will showcase your qualifications and experience. We'll walk you through the essential components of a resume, provide tips on how to stand out from the competition, and provide a downloadable template to get you started. With the right approach, you'll be able to highlight your skills and strengths for the perfect resume that will get you the job you want.

We will cover:

• How to write a resume , no matter your industry or job title.
• What to put on a resume to stand out.
• The top skills employers from every industry want to see.
• How to build a resume fast with our professional Resume Builder .
• What a resume template is, and why you should use it.

What does a Graduate Nurse do?

A graduate nurse is a newly-licensed nurse who is just beginning their career in the nursing field. They typically gain experience by working under a more experienced nurse or physician. Their duties may include providing patient care, administering medications, taking patient vital signs, assisting with diagnostic tests, documenting patient progress, preparing patient rooms, providing emotional support to patients and families, and educating patients and families about health care topics.

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What are some responsibilities of a Graduate Nurse?

• Performing patient assessments and administering medications
• Providing patient education and counseling
• Developing and implementing patient care plans
• Collaborating with other healthcare professionals
• Monitoring patient progress and making adjustments to care plans
• Conducting research to improve patient care
• Documenting patient care and treatments

Sample Graduate Nurse Resume for Inspiration

Name: Jane Smith

Address: 123 Main Street, Anytown, CA 12345

Phone: (123) 456-7890

Email: [email protected]

Recent graduate nurse with experience in providing patient care in a variety of settings. Proven ability to collaborate with other healthcare professionals and to deliver high-quality patient care. Possesses excellent communication skills and a commitment to providing compassionate care.

Work Experience

• Assisted doctors in providing quality care to patients on a daily basis.
• Developed nursing care plans and provided direct patient care.
• Collaborated with other healthcare professionals to provide patient education.
• Provided patient care in a variety of settings.
• Performed assessment of patients and documented findings.
• Performed treatments and procedures according to physician orders.
• BSN, Anytown University, Anytown, CA - 2017
• Patient Assessment
• Medication Administration
• Patient Education
• Team Collaboration
• Emergency Care

Certifications

• Registered Nurse (RN) - State of California
• Basic Life Support (BLS) - American Heart Association
• Spanish - Conversational

Resume tips for Graduate Nurse

Creating a perfect, career-launching resume is no easy task. Following general writing rules can help, but it is also smart to get advice tailored to your specific job search. When you’re new to the employment world, you need Graduate Nurse resume tips. We collected the best tips from seasoned Graduate Nurse - Check out their advice to not only make your writing process easier but also increase your chances of creating a resume that piques the interest of prospective employers.

• Highlight any relevant certifications, programs, or degrees you have earned.
• Include any special training or skills you have acquired.
• Focus on any experience you have gained in the nursing field since graduating.
• Make sure to quantify your accomplishments with numbers, if possible.
• Emphasize any leadership roles you have held in nursing organizations.

Graduate Nurse Resume Summary Examples

A graduate nurse resume summary or resume objective is an important tool for communicating your qualifications to potential employers. It is a concise summary, usually around three sentences, of your professional experience and qualifications that demonstrates why you are the ideal candidate for the job you are applying for. It provides the employer with a snapshot of your professional experience and qualifications that can help them quickly decide if you are the right fit for their organization. The graduate nurse resume summary or resume objective should highlight your key qualifications, experiences, and skills that are relevant to the job you are applying for. For Example:

• Recent graduate nurse with experience in both clinical and administrative roles. Highly organized and motivated to provide quality patient care.
• Recent graduate nurse with a BSN degree and excellent bedside manner. Passionate about providing patient-centered care and helping others.
• Recent graduate nurse with experience in acute care settings. Strong clinical skills and a commitment to delivering compassionate care.
• Recent graduate nurse with a proven ability to think quickly and act decisively in critical situations. Dedicated to providing quality care.
• Recent graduate nurse with exceptional communication and problem-solving skills. Committed to providing compassionate care and advocating for patients.

Build a Strong Experience Section for Your Graduate Nurse Resume

Building a strong experience section for a graduate nurse resume is important for several reasons. First, it gives potential employers a snapshot of your experience and accomplishments within the nursing field. This can help them to determine if you have the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful in their organization. Additionally, it allows you to showcase your ability to work under pressure and provide high-quality care to patients. Finally, the experience section can demonstrate your commitment to the nursing profession, which is invaluable to employers. For Example:

• Provided holistic care to a diverse population of patients in a fast-paced medical environment.
• Conducted patient assessments and triaged patients according to their medical needs.
• Developed individualized care plans and monitored progress throughout patient's duration of stay.
• Worked collaboratively with physicians, specialists and other healthcare professionals to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes.
• Administered medications and treatments properly and in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Assisted with patient transfers and ambulation as required.
• Provided comfort, emotional support and compassionate care to patients and families.
• Performed patient care rounds and communicated patient status to the healthcare team.
• Participated in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient plan of care.
• Fostered a positive working relationship with patients, families and healthcare staff.

Graduate Nurse resume education example

Graduate nurses need a minimum of a bachelor's degree in nursing. Most graduate nurses also require additional education to specialize in a particular field. This could include a master's or doctoral degree in nursing, certifications for specialized nursing, or continuing education courses. Here is an example of an experience listing suitable for a Graduate Nurse resume:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing, University of Colorado, Denver, CO, May 2020
• Received the Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence in 2020
• Certified in Basic Life Support (BLS) by the American Heart Association
• Completed multiple nursing clinical rotations in various medical settings, such as pediatrics and psychiatric/mental health.

Graduate Nurse Skills for a Resume

Adding skills to a Graduate Nurse Resume is important because it helps to highlight the knowledge and abilities that you possess that are applicable to the nursing field. This allows employers to quickly identify what you have to offer and can make a difference in the decision-making process when selecting applicants for a position. Skills should be tailored to the position you are applying for and should focus on those that are applicable to the position. Examples of skills may include patient care, clinical skills, time management, communication, teamwork, problem solving, and critical thinking. Soft Skills:

• Communication
• Critical Thinking
• Organization
• Time Management
• Flexibility
• Problem Solving
• Interpersonal Skills
• Critical thinking
• Medication administration
• Patient assessment
• Interpersonal communication
• Clinical documentation
• Health promotion
• Infection control
• Emergency care
• Pharmacology

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Graduate Nurse Resume

In this competitive job market, employers receive an average of 180 applications for each open position. To process these resumes, companies often rely on automated applicant tracking systems, which can sift through resumes and eliminate the least qualified applicants. If your resume is among the few that make it past these bots, it must still impress the recruiter or hiring manager. With so many applications coming in, recruiters typically give each resume only 5 seconds of their attention before deciding whether to discard it. Considering this, it's best to avoid including any distracting information on your application that could cause it to be thrown away. To help make sure your resume stands out, review the list below of what you should not include on your job application.

• Not including a cover letter. A cover letter is a great way to explain why you are the best candidate for the job and why you want the position.
• Using too much jargon. Hiring managers do not want to read a resume full of technical terms that they do not understand.
• Omitting important details. Make sure to include your contact information, educational background, job history, and any relevant skills and experiences.
• Using a generic template. Take the time to customize your resume to the job you are applying for. This will show the employer that you are serious about the position.
• Spelling and grammar errors. Always double-check your resume for typos, spelling mistakes, and grammar errors.
• Focusing too much on duties. Make sure to include accomplishments and successes to show the employer that you are a great candidate.
• Including personal information. Avoid including any personal information such as age, marital status, or religious beliefs.

Key takeaways for a Graduate Nurse resume

• Highlight your clinical experience and nursing skills.
• Include your current state nursing license or any licenses from other states.
• Include your certifications in the field of nursing.
• Mention any leadership roles you’ve had.
• Include volunteer experience.
• Include relevant technology or computer programs you’ve used.
• Mention any awards or honors you’ve received.
• List your memberships in professional organizations.
• Include any continuing education courses you’ve taken.
• Use industry-specific keywords.

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Nursing Resume Templates | Free Resume Templates for Nurses | How to Create a Resume for RN

Looking for  free nursing resume templates ? Before  nurses can secure their nursing jobs , they must go through the application period. This includes creating a resume , submitting a nursing portfolio, and going through the interview process . Nursing jobs are highly competitive, especially certain specialty areas such as OB GYN and Pediatrics fields. So it is very important that when creating a resume that the nurse creates a resume that will stand out and grab the employers attention.

How to Create a Resume for Nursing Students and Nurses

Think of the resume as an advertisement to the customer (which is the employer) that will lure them in to set-up an interview with you. The resume is a short one piece of piece (no more than two) that gives the employer a short summary of your education, certifications, skills, and achievements.

Try not to confuse the resume with a nurse portfolio. A nurse portfolio is a collection of the supporting documents that supports your resume. For more information on nurse portfolio check out our article on it.

Free Resume Templates for Nurses

These rn resume templates are free for you to use. They were developed by us and you can use them as you please. They are in Microsoft Word .doc format. If you do not have Microsoft Word you can use the FREE open source software known as OpenOffice via openoffice.org. It is completely free!

Once you have downloaded the templates you can edit them and add your own content. Be sure to let you friends on facebook know about these free resume templates!

To download the resume template simply click the picture of the template you like and click open:

Get 16 Premium Nursing Resume Templates & Cover Letters

Check out our job guide called “ Nursing Resume Templates and Job Guide by Nurse Sarah “. Nurse Sarah’s updated eBook guide & template bundle will walk you step-by-step through the entire job process. You’ll learn how to….

• Create a stunning resume and matching cover letter (16 professionally designed templates included with download)
• Ace your nursing job interview with the most common job interview questions (includes sample answers)
• Getting letters of recommendation & putting together your nurse portfolio
• Tips for finding your first nursing job and getting hired fast
• Tips to transition from nursing student to new nurse (talking to doctors, common struggles, etc.)
• Advancing in your career
• And more (see table of contents below)

Resume Templates and Matching Cover Letters Included

You can get an eBook version here or physical copy ( affiliate ad ) here.

Categories to Included in Your Resume

When creating a resume you can include many different categories. Remember that everyone’s resume will be a little different because people have had different experiences. For example, some people have had more educational experience than others and in their resume they should elaborate more on that area.

If you are not in any professional clubs substitute another category to replace it. For example, if you have great references, list them in that place or any volunteer work you have done.

Here are some categories you can include in your resume:

• Educational Experience
• Job History
• Professional Memberships
• Volunteer Work
• Academic Achievements
• Certifications
• Personal Goals
• Publications

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Graduate Nurse Resume Examples

Writing a great graduate nurse resume is important because it is one of the first things a potential employer will see when they are considering you for a position. It is your opportunity to make a good first impression and sell yourself as the best candidate for the job.

Create your resume Select from 7 professional resume templates

If you're looking for inspiration when it comes to drafting your own graduate nurse resume, look no further than the samples below. These resumes will help you highlight your experience and qualifications in the most effective way possible, giving you the best chance of landing the graduate nurse job you're after.

or download as PDF

Essential Components of a Graduate Nurse Resume

For a newly graduated nurse, the resume is a critical tool for securing that first position. It serves as an introduction to potential employers, showcasing your nursing knowledge, educational background, and practical experience. A well-structured resume for a graduate nurse typically includes several key sections: contact information, an objective statement, education and qualifications, clinical experience, skills and certifications, professional affiliations, and references. Let's delve into each section to understand its importance and how to optimize it for your job search.

1. Contact Information

At the top of your resume, prominently display your contact information , including your name, phone number, professional email, and location (city and state). Ensure your name is in bold to stand out, and provide a reliable phone number, preferably a mobile number with a professional voicemail greeting. Your email should be professional, ideally consisting of your first and last names, and consider including a LinkedIn profile link, ensuring the profile is current and comprehensive. While full home addresses are no longer standard due to privacy concerns, including your city and state is sufficient, unless you're job hunting in a different state, in which case you may omit it or use a local address if available.

2. Objective Statement

The Objective Statement is a concise declaration of your career aspirations and what you aim to bring to the nursing field. Tailor this statement to the job you're applying for, emphasizing relevant skills, experiences, and goals. It should convey your enthusiasm for nursing and highlight unique attributes that set you apart from other candidates. For example, if your focus was on pediatric nursing, your objective might read: "Seeking to leverage my graduate education and internship experience in pediatric nursing at XYZ Hospital to deliver exceptional care to young patients and support their families."

3. Education and Qualifications

The Education and Qualifications section is where you list your academic achievements and nursing credentials. Begin with your most advanced degree and proceed in reverse chronological order. Include the institutions' names, locations, graduation dates, and any honors or distinctions. Also, detail your nursing certifications and licenses, such as RN licensure, and any specialized certifications like PALS or ACLS. Mention clinical rotations or internships, specifying the specialty, facility, location, and duration. Highlighting academic and extracurricular involvement, such as honors societies or student nurse associations, can also be beneficial.

4. Clinical Experience

The Clinical Experience section is a testament to your hands-on nursing practice obtained during your studies. Detail each clinical placement, including the facility name, duration, and specific responsibilities and achievements. Emphasize areas of specialization and any notable procedures or technologies you're proficient with. Soft skills developed during these experiences, such as communication and teamwork, are also valuable to mention.

5. Skills and Certifications

In the Skills and Certifications section, list your nursing competencies and any additional certifications you hold. Technical skills might include medication administration, wound care, or medical equipment proficiency, while soft skills could encompass communication, empathy, critical thinking, and teamwork. Highlight certifications like BLS, ACLS, PALS, NRP, or CCRN, providing details about the issuing organization and validity dates. Tailor this section to the job description, focusing on the most relevant skills and certifications.

6. Professional Affiliations

Membership in professional organizations, such as the ANA, Sigma Theta Tau, or ENA, demonstrates your commitment to the nursing profession and continuous learning. List your affiliations, duration of membership, and any leadership roles or contributions to projects or initiatives. Align this section with the job you're applying for, emphasizing the most relevant affiliations.

7. References

Include at least three references who can attest to your nursing competencies and character. Choose individuals familiar with your work, such as professors, mentors, or supervisors from clinical rotations. Always obtain permission before listing someone as a reference and ensure their contact information is up-to-date. While not all employers request references initially, having a prepared list is advisable.

In summary, a graduate nurse resume should be a well-organized and targeted presentation of your qualifications, experiences, and professional demeanor. By carefully crafting each section, you can make a compelling case for your candidacy in the competitive nursing field.

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30+ Free Sample Nursing Resume Templates – MS Word, PDF

A nursing resume is a document that provides a summary of a nurse’s education, professional qualifications, skills, and work experience. It is typically used by nurses when applying for jobs, whether in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, home healthcare, or other healthcare settings. The primary purpose of a nursing resume is to showcase the nurse’s qualifications and experience in a clearly organized format, making it easier for potential employers to assess their suitability for a specific nursing position. In this article, you’ll find a collection of free Simple Nursing Resume Templates and samples in PDF, Word, and Excel format to help you make your CV effective.

Table of Contents

Download Free Sample Nursing Resume Templates

Key element of nursing resume template.

A nursing resume template should effectively highlight your qualifications, skills, and experience in the field of nursing. Here are some key elements of the nursing resume template;

• Objective or summary: A brief statement that summarizes the nurse’s career goals and highlights their key qualifications and what they bring to the position.
• Education: Information about the nurse’s educational background including the name of the nursing school, degree earned, graduation date, and any relevant certificate or licenses.
• Certifications: Details about the nurse’s current state nursing license and any additional certifications, such as advanced cardiac life support, or certificated pediatric nurse.
• Clinic experience: A list of the nurse’s previous nursing positions, including the name of the employer, location, dates of employment, and a summary of their responsibilities and accomplishments in each role.
• Skills: A section that highlights the nurse’s technical and soft skills, such as proficiency in electronic health record systems, strong communication skills, teamwork, and any specialized skills relevant to the nursing field.
• Awards and honors: Any recognition or award received for outstanding nursing performance or contributions to the healthcare field.
• Continued education: Information about any additional courses or workshops attended to maintain and improve nursing skills and knowledge.
• References: While it’s not common to include references directly or a resume, you can mention that references are available upon request.

Why Important To Use Nursing Resume Templates

Templates are designed by professionals to ensure your resume looks polished and follows industry standards. This can help you make a positive first impression on potential employers. Templates provide a structured format with consistent headings and sections. It helps to organize your information in a logical manner, making it easier for recruiters to review your qualifications.

Creating a resume from scratch can be time-consuming. Templates save your time by providing a pre-designed layout that you can fill in with your specific details, allowing you to focus on the content. Templates include consistent formatting for fonts, spacing, and bullet points. It ensures that your resume is easy to read and aesthetically pleasing.

Many templates come with placeholder text and tips on what information to include in each section. It can be helpful, especially if you’re unsure about what to include on your resume. While provide a structured format, they are also customizable. You can tailor the template to your specific qualifications, skills, and experiences, making your resume unique.

Nursing resumes often have specific requirements and expectations. Using a nursing resume template can help ensure that your resume aligns with industry standards and shows your nursing skills effectively. Templates can help reduce the risk of formatting errors or inconsistencies in your resume, which can be off-putting to employers.

A well-designed resume template conveys a sense of professionalism and attention to detail, which are essential qualities in the nursing profession.  Nursing trends and resume best practices may evolve over time. Using a template that reflects current standards can help you create a resume that stands out in today’s job market.

How To Use A Nursing Resume Templates

Using a nursing resume template can help streamline documents and improve consistency in the healthcare setting. These templates are designed to assist nurses in documenting patient information, care plans, assessments, and more.

• Choose a nursing resume template that matches the specific task or documentation requirement. There are various types of nursing templates available, such as nursing care plans, nursing assessment forms, shift report sheets, and more.
• Familiarize yourself with the template’s structures and content. Understand the sections and fields with the template and how they should be filled out.
• Begin by entering the patient’s demographics and identifying information in the designated spaces. This typically includes the patient’s name, medical report number, date of birth, and contact information.
• If the template is for a nursing assessment, document the patient’s vital signs, symptoms, medical history, and relevant observation. Use the template’s predefined fields to record this information.
• If you’re using a nursing care plan template, outline the patient’s care goals and the interventions required. Include details about medications, treatments, and any special considerations.
• For nursing progress notes or shift report templates, record the information relevant to the patient’s condition, any changes observed, and actions taken during your shift. Be concise and specific.
• Ensure that your documentation complies with your healthcare facility’s policies. As well as legal and ethical standards. Use clear and professional language. 
• Sign and date your documentation according to your facility’s protocols. This verifies that you provided the care and documented it accurately.
• Store completed templates securely in accordance with your facility’s guidelines. Ensure that they are easily accessible to authorized personnel when needed.

How To Download A Free Nursing Resume Template As PDF

Follow some steps to download a free nursing resume template as a PDF:

Here is a button to download the template. It is labeled as “Download PDF,” Or “Download Template”. If you accept any terms or provide the necessary information, the website should allow you to download the nursing templates as a PDF. Click the download link or button again to initiate the download. Choose a location on your computer or device where you want to save the PDF template and click” save” or “ Download”. Once the PDF is downloaded, you can open it with a PDF reader like Adobe Acrobat Reader. You may also be able to edit the template if it’s a fillable PDF form. If not, you can print it and fill it out manually.

How To Download A Free Nursing Resume Template As A Word File

Once you find a nursing resume template in Word format. Click on the download link or button. The template will typically download as a Word (.docx) file. Save it to your computer. Open the downloaded Word documents and fill in the necessary details. Distribution agreements can vary widely depending on the specific business arrangements, so be sure to customize the template to meet your needs. Replace placeholders with relevant information such as company names, product details, terms, and conditions.

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• 21+ Nurse Resume Templates – PDF, DOC

Nurses work in a lot of different departments, for example, the operating room, oncology, critical care, ER, or labor and delivery. That means you have to make the right type of resume so you can land the job you want in a hospital. But don’t worry! Whether you are a new grad beginner or a nurse manager with a 1-year of experience, we got templates perfect for you! Attaching your resume to your cover letter increases your probability of securing the job that you are seeking. Thanks to nurse resume templates, you do not have to write your CV from scratch. These Resume templates  are professionally designed making them effective for job hunting. They pride themselves on outstanding features including print readiness, free layouts, and easy editing and customization. You simply require selecting an attractive design and filling in the necessary areas. Travel through our page to find the best sample template for you.

Staff Nurse Resume Word Format Free Download

Nursing Resume Template Word Free Download

Nurse Resume Templates

• What are the objectives of your resume?
• Personal details: Personal details include your name, address, and your contact details for communication
• Educational details: Educational details include your course of study in the nursing field
• Skills and Experiences: Make sure you write about your skills and work experiences in your Nurse Resume Design .
• Other details are relevant to the job you are looking for.

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