Hello all, I need to submit a resume and a cover letter as a graduate nurse seeking a position in a hospital. I have attached a copy of the guidelines, grading criteria, and a  link to the PDF version of the book for a reference.  Thank you in advance for all of your help.

Dear student,

Thank you for reaching out. I can certainly help you with your resume and cover letter. To begin, I suggest we first discuss some key points to consider when creating these documents for a graduate nurse seeking a position in a hospital.

1. Tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific position and hospital: It is vital to highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with the job requirements and the hospital’s mission and values. Research the hospital and the department you apply to thoroughly to gain a better understanding of their needs and priorities.

2. Start with a strong opening statement: In your cover letter, begin by stating your interest in the position and why you believe you are a suitable candidate. This opening statement should grab the reader’s attention and make them want to continue reading.

3. Highlight your education and clinical experiences: As a graduate nurse, your education and clinical experiences are crucial. Include your nursing degree, any specialties or certifications you have, as well as any relevant coursework or clinical rotations. Emphasize any hands-on experience you have gained, particularly in hospital settings.

4. Showcase your technical and interpersonal skills: Apart from your education, employers are interested in your technical skills, such as medication administration, wound care, and charting. Additionally, emphasize your communication and teamwork skills, as they are essential in the healthcare field.

5. Demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning: Nursing is a constantly evolving field, so it is important to demonstrate your willingness to learn and grow. Mention any professional development opportunities you have pursued, such as attending conferences or participating in specialized training programs.

Now, let’s move on to the structure and content of your resume and cover letter.

Resume:

1. Contact information: Begin your resume with your name, phone number, email address, and professional social media profiles (if applicable). Keep this section concise and easy to read.

2. Objective statement: Write a clear and concise objective statement that highlights your career goals and how they align with the position you are applying for.

3. Education: List your nursing degree, including the institution, date of graduation, and any relevant coursework or honors.

4. Clinical experience: Detail your clinical experiences, including the hospitals or healthcare facilities you worked in, the duration of each experience, and the specific units or departments you worked in. Highlight any notable achievements or responsibilities.

5. Skills: Create a section dedicated to showcasing your technical and interpersonal skills. Include skills such as medication administration, wound care, IV therapy, and proficiency in electronic medical records. Also, include any foreign languages you may be proficient in.

6. Certifications and licensure: Include any certifications, such as Basic Life Support (BLS) or Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), as well as your nursing license information.

7. Professional affiliations: If you are a member of any nursing associations or organizations, include them here.

8. Professional development: Briefly mention any relevant conferences, workshops, or training programs you have attended to demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning.

9. References: It is not necessary to include references on your resume. Instead, mention that they are available upon request.

Cover Letter:

1. Heading: At the top of your cover letter, include your name, address, phone number, and email address. Format it like a traditional business letter.

2. Salutation: Address the cover letter to the hiring manager or the person listed in the job posting. Use their full name if possible.

3. Opening paragraph: Begin with a strong and engaging opening statement that explains your interest in the position. Mention the hospital by name and briefly explain why you believe you are a suitable candidate.

4. Body paragraphs: Use 1-2 paragraphs to highlight your education, clinical experiences, and skills. Provide specific examples that demonstrate your competency and suitability for the role. Connect your experiences to the hospital’s values and mission.

5. Closing paragraph: Summarize your interest and qualifications, and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the hospital’s team. Thank the reader for considering your application and provide your contact information.

6. Closing and signature: End the letter with a professional closing, such as “Sincerely,” followed by your full name. Leave space for your handwritten signature if you are submitting a hard copy.

Remember to proofread both your resume and cover letter carefully for any errors or inconsistencies. Consider seeking feedback from a trusted mentor, professor, or career services professional before finalizing your application materials.

I hope this guidance helps you create strong and impactful resume and cover letter. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask.

Best of luck with your application!

Sincerely,
[Your Name]