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Entry Level Rn Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Rn information

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How much do entry level rn jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level rn in Kentucky is $28.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.57 and $29.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Entry Level RNs?

Entry Level Registered Nurses (RNs) are newly licensed nurses who have recently graduated from an accredited nursing program and passed the NCLEX-RN exam. They typically have less than one year of professional nursing experience and work under the supervision of more experienced nurses and healthcare professionals. Entry Level RNs provide direct patient care, administer medications, and assist with medical procedures while gaining practical experience and developing their clinical skills. These positions are designed to help new nurses transition into the workforce and build a foundation for a successful nursing career.

What does a 2 year RN make?

A registered nurse with two years of experience typically earns between $60,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on location, healthcare facility, and specialization. Salary can increase with additional certifications, skills, and responsibilities in the role.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level registered nurses during their first year, and how can they navigate them?

Entry-level registered nurses often encounter challenges such as managing time effectively during busy shifts, adapting to the fast-paced clinical environment, and building confidence in clinical decision-making. To navigate these challenges, new nurses can seek support from experienced colleagues, participate in hospital orientation or residency programs, and stay proactive in asking questions and seeking feedback. Developing strong communication and organizational skills early on can also help ease the transition and foster professional growth.

Can I go straight to an RN with no experience?

Becoming an entry-level RN typically requires completing an accredited nursing program and obtaining a license through the NCLEX-RN exam. Prior experience is not mandatory, but clinical rotations and relevant skills can improve job prospects; most employers hire new graduates who have met licensing requirements.

What Does an Entry-Level RN Do?

An entry-level RN cares for patients in a variety of settings, mostly clinical. Your responsibilities may include assessment of patient conditions, creation and execution of patient-specific care plans, consultation with physicians and specialists, and communicating with patients and their families regarding treatment options and medication. With certification as an RN, entry-level nurses develop patient care skills while carrying out regular duties such as placing IVs, administering treatments and medications, documenting patient information, and other clinical tasks. As an entry-level RN, you can work in a variety of settings under the guidance of a doctor while gaining experience to help advance your career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level RN, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level RN, you need a nursing degree, RN licensure, and a solid understanding of clinical procedures and patient care. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, basic medical equipment, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and empathy help new nurses build relationships with patients and collaborate effectively with colleagues. These skills are vital for ensuring patient safety, delivering quality care, and adapting to the fast-paced demands of healthcare environments.

What is the difference between Entry Level Rn vs Licensed Practical Nurse?

AspectEntry Level RnLicensed Practical Nurse
CredentialsAssociate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), RN licenseDiploma or Certificate in Practical Nursing, LPN license
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, outpatient settingsLong-term care, nursing homes, clinics, hospitals (supervised roles)
Job ResponsibilitiesAssessments, care planning, administering medications, patient educationBasic patient care, vital signs, assisting with activities of daily living

Entry Level Rns and Licensed Practical Nurses both provide essential patient care but differ mainly in education, scope of practice, and responsibilities. Rns typically have more advanced training and can perform more complex tasks, while Lpns focus on basic care under supervision. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job opportunity.

How to make $300,000 a year as a nurse?

Entry level registered nurses typically do not earn $300,000 annually; such high salaries are usually achieved through advanced roles like nurse anesthetists, nurse practitioners, or nurse executives, often requiring additional certifications, specialized skills, and experience. Working in high-demand settings, taking on overtime, or pursuing advanced degrees can increase earning potential over time.

What is considered the easiest RN job?

The easiest RN job often involves working in outpatient clinics, telehealth, or school nursing, where patient acuity is generally lower and shifts are predictable. These roles typically require less physical demand and fewer emergency situations, making them suitable for new graduates or those seeking a less stressful environment. However, ease can vary based on individual skills and preferences.
More about Entry Level Rn jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Rn jobs in Kentucky? The most popular types of Rn jobs in Kentucky are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Rn jobs in Kentucky? For Entry Level Rn jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Rn jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Rn jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Entry Level Rn jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Entry Level Rn job openings:
Entry Level Rn jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Rn job openings in Kentucky as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,830 per year, or $28.8 per hour.
New Grad Registered Nurse (RN) - Med/Surg - 5th Floor - Ortho/Neuro - Lourdes Hospital

New Grad Registered Nurse (RN) - Med/Surg - 5th Floor - Ortho/Neuro - Lourdes Hospital

Bon Secours Mercy Health

Paducah, KY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Bon Secours Mercy Health rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 465 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

371st of 873 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Thank you for considering a career at Mercy Health!

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

36

Work Shift:

Nights (United States of America)

Mercy Health

About us

As a faith-based and patient-focused organization, Mercy Health exists to enhance the health and well-being of all people in mind, body and spirit through exceptional patient care. Success in this goal requires a culture of compassion, collaboration, excellence and respect. Mercy Health seeks people that are committed to our values of compassion, human dignity, integrity, service and stewardship to create an environment where associates want to work and help communities thrive.

Registered Nurse (RN) - Med-Surg - New Grad -Lourdes Hospital

Job Summary:

The New Grad Med-Surg Registered Nurse (RN) position is responsible for delivering exceptional entry-level nursing care to patients by:

  • Utilizing strong organizational and leadership skills to assess patient status
  • Providing care to patients with medical and surgical diagnoses
  • Implementing clinical nursing interventions
  • Having a highly diverse medical skillset
  • Developing and performing patient care plans to enhance and improve outcomes
  • Ensuring a safe and therapeutic environment

Essential Functions:

  • Collaborate with the interdisciplinary care team
  • Collect vital signs, administer IV medications, understand charting and assess patient condition
  • Evaluate, update and revise plan of care to facilitate achievement of planned and expected outcomes
  • Administer medications in a safe manner consistent with the State of Practice and Mercy Health policies and procedures
  • Other duties as assigned

Education:

  • Bachelor's degree in nursing (preferred)

Required Licensing & Certifications:

  • Current state licensure as a Registered Nurse (RN) or RN applicant
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) - American Heart Association (preferred upon hire, must obtain prior to direct patient care)

Mercy Health is an equal opportunity employer.

As a Mercy Health associate, you're part of a Misson that matters. We support your well-being - personally and professionally. Our benefits are built to grow with you and meet your unique needs, every step of the way.

What we offer
Competitive pay, incentives, referral bonuses and 403(b) with employer contributions (when eligible)
Medical, dental, vision, prescription coverage, HAS/FSA options, life insurance, mental health resources and discounts
Paid time off, parental and FMLA leave, short- and long-term disability, backup care for children and elders
Tuition assistance, professional development and continuing education support

Benefits may vary based on the market and employment status.

Department:

Med/Surg Unit - Lourdes Med/Surg 5th Floor

It is our policy to abide by all Federal and State laws, as well as, the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). Accordingly, all applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. If you'd like to view a copy of the affirmative action plan or policy statement for Mercy Health- Youngstown, Ohio or Bon Secours - Franklin, Virginia; Petersburg, Virginia; and Emporia, Virginia, which are Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer, please email recruitment@mercy.com. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact The Talent Acquisition Team at recruitment@mercy.com.

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