• Resume –

The resume provides a clear picture of your ability and experience.  Be sure that it presents a professional appearance; it is clear and concise; and, of course, hit the spellchecker before you print it!  Having a current resume is an indication of your professional commitment.  Keep your resume updated on a computer disc for easy access.

• Nursing License –

You must be able to present your professional license at any interview.  You will not be able to work without it!  Actually, even though Tri-State Nursing will have a copy of your license on file, you are expected to have your license with you at all times.

• Driver’s License –

 This, of course, is mandatory if you are expected to drive in the course of duty.  However, it is also one of the identifications that businesses need for filing I-9 forms with the federal government.

• Social Security Card –

 A second component needed for filling the I-9 and tax forms.  You will not be able to work without it.

• Other Proof of Citizenship –

State ID, military ID or current Green card will suffice.  A current Green card is required for all non-citizens. 

• Vaccination Records –

Patient care positions require proof of vaccination for rubella, varicella and hepatitis.

• TB Clearance –

All patient care positions require TB clearance either through an annual PPD or through chest x-ray.  Most facilities will require double testing on hire and then yearly thereafter.  You can speed this process by always having these records available and current. Be aware that, if you are submitting a chest x-ray as proof of TB clearance, that you will still need to submit a doctor’s clearance annually that certifies that you are free of symptoms of TB.

• Physical Exam –

Larger organizations may send you to their own occupational health department for a physical.  Agencies like our own will ask you to obtain a physical.  The most pertinent information is a physician or nurse practitioner’s certification that you are fit for the duties of your position.  You should always keep a copy of any physical exams that you receive.  You will be required to submit a physical yearly.

• Job References –

Organizations will routinely ask for employment references from you.  Minimally, you will need to provide the full name of your supervisor, the address (including zip code) and the phone number of each of your current and/or former employers.  You should also keep a file of any letter/memos that acknowledge your professional performance and your yearly performance evaluations from your employers.  Organizations are increasingly apt to verify only your dates of employment and will not provide job references.  Your performance evaluations provide indication of your prior work performance.

• Adult/Child Abuse Mandatory Reporter Certification –

Needed when working in a healthcare facility.  This class trains healthcare workers how to identify and report adult and child abuse when seen.  Be sure to have proof of your certification when applying for a patient care position.

• Certificates -

Be prepared that you will need to submit certificates for any prerequisites to the position.  This includes BLS, but there may be others.  Examples include: BLS, NALS, ACLS, CPI, ALS, EMT.  

• Proof of Continuing /Annual Education –

Examples include age-related competency, body mechanics, fire/electrical safety, and universal precautions.  There may be others. Keep the certificates for any education/ in-service that you attend.

• Auto Insurance Card/ Driver’s Abstract-

These are required if you are required to drive your car during the course of your duty.

• Other Expectations –

Keep in mind that there may be other pre-employment requirements depending on the assignment and/or facility that you apply to.  These may include:

Ø      Pre-employment Drug Testing

Ø      Criminal History Checks

• Finally.....