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Grad Rn Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

ED - RN

Walnut Ridge, AR · On-site

$30/hr

FT RN - $5000 Experienced/$3000 New Grad Job Objective/Summary: The Emergency Department Registered Nurse is to provide professional care while assuming responsibility and accountability for a group ...

Showing results 41-60

Grad Rn information

What is a Grad RN?

Grad RNs, or Graduate Registered Nurses, are individuals who have completed the educational requirements for a nursing degree and have graduated from an accredited nursing program, but may not yet be fully licensed as registered nurses. Typically, Grad RNs are in the process of preparing for and taking the NCLEX-RN exam, which is required to obtain their nursing license. During this period, they may work in healthcare settings under the supervision of licensed RNs or physicians. Their responsibilities often include providing direct patient care, administering medications, and assisting with medical procedures, all while gaining practical experience. Once they pass the licensing exam, they become fully licensed registered nurses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Grad RN, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Grad RN, a foundational understanding of nursing principles, clinical skills, and completion of a nursing degree with eligibility for RN licensure are essential. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), hospital protocols, and basic patient care equipment is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn help new graduates adapt and excel during their transition into professional practice. These competencies ensure safe patient care, effective collaboration, and a smooth integration into the healthcare environment.

What types of mentorship and support can a new Grad RN expect during their transition into clinical practice?

As a new Grad RN, you can typically expect to be paired with a preceptor or mentor during your orientation period. This experienced nurse will guide you through daily responsibilities, answer your questions, and help you develop clinical skills and confidence. Most hospitals offer structured residency or transition-to-practice programs, which may include classroom learning, simulation labs, and regular check-ins with educators or managers. This support system is designed to ease your transition from student to practicing nurse, promote professional growth, and help you navigate common challenges faced by new graduates.

What is the difference between Grad Rn vs Registered Nurse?

AspectGrad RnRegistered Nurse
CredentialsGraduated from an accredited nursing program, eligible for licensureLicensed and fully credentialed nurse with active RN license
Work EnvironmentEntry-level settings, supervised clinical rotations, training rolesFull responsibilities in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, clinics, healthcare agencies during trainingEstablished healthcare providers, hospitals, clinics
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles, training positionsFull practice roles, career progression

In summary, a Grad Rn is a nursing graduate in the process of obtaining licensure and gaining practical experience, while a Registered Nurse is a fully licensed professional with broader responsibilities and independence in patient care.

What can I do as a new graduate registered nurse?

As a new graduate registered nurse, you can work in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities, providing patient care under supervision. You may start in entry-level roles like staff nurse or patient care associate, and obtaining certifications like Basic Life Support (BLS) can enhance your qualifications. Gaining experience and developing clinical skills are essential for career advancement.
Infographic showing various Grad Rn job openings in Arkansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 56% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Registered Nurse - Surgical ICU (Nights)

Fort Smith, AR • On-site

Mercy
Health Care and Social Assistance • 10K+ employees

$2.0K/day

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Mercy rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 209 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Find your calling at Mercy! Position Details:

Join a growing organization that has recently completed a $162 million expansion of Mercy Fort Smith's Emergency Department and Intensive Care Unit. With expanded capacity, advanced technology, and a modern care environment, our teams are well-equipped to serve more patients and continue delivering exceptional care to the communities we serve.

Seeking experienced RN's!

Incentives:

  • $10,000 Sign-On Bonus for Full-Time and Part Time (.6 and above) RNs with 1+ Year of RN Experience! (No Contract!)
  • No Call!
  • Relocation Assistance up to $3,000 per policy
  • Stay Premium Program - up to $8/hour based on years of Mercy service
  • Education Assistance
    • Up to $20,000 Loan Forgiveness for new grad nurses
    • Tuition Reimbursement $2,000 per year
  • Day-One Comprehensive Medical, Vision & Dental Insurance
  • PTO/Vacation Time
  • 401(k) Employer-Matched Retirement Funds
  • Shift Differentials

Qualifications:

  • Education:
    • Graduate of an accredited registered professional nursing program
  • Licensure:
    • Is personally responsible for obtaining, and maintaining, a current RN license within the hiring state and/or compact licensure in which nursing duties are performed and must meet all state board of nursing requirements.
  • Certifications:
    • Basic Life Support certification through the American Heart Association or successful completion of course within 30 days of hire
Why Mercy?

From day one, Mercy offers outstanding benefits - including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, tuition support, and matched retirement plans for team members working 32+ hours per pay period.

Join a caring, collaborative team where your voice matters. At Mercy, you'll help shape the future of healthcare through innovation, technology, and compassion. As we grow, you'll grow with us.


What Mercy employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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Mercy logo

About Mercy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our mission is clear. We bring to life a healing ministry through our compassionate care and exceptional service. At Mercy, we believe in careers that match the unique gifts of unique individuals - careers that not only make the most of your skills and talents, but also your heart.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chesterfield, MO, US

Year founded

1827