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Grad Rn Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

UHS

NEW GRAD REGISTERED NURSE - Full time

Chicago, IL · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

Hartgrove Hospital is looking for dynamic NEW GRAD Registered Nurses! If you have a desire to work in an engaging environment with a team of professionals dedicated to the healing and health of the ...

UHS

NEW GRAD REGISTERED NURSE - Full time

Chicago, IL · On-site

Hartgrove Hospital is looking for dynamic NEW GRAD Registered Nurses! If you have a desire to work in an engaging environment with a team of professionals dedicated to the healing and health of the ...

UHS

NEW GRAD REGISTERED NURSE - Full time

Chicago, IL · On-site

Registered Nurse Position at Hartgrove Behavioral Health System Hartgrove Behavioral Health System is first hospital in the nation to receive the Joint Commission Gold Seal of Approval for Trauma ...

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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.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Grad Rn jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Grad Rn job openings:

Grad Rn jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grad Rn job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

New Grad Registered Nurse Residency-Neuroscience Progressive Unit Full-time Nights

Chicago, IL • On-site

Northwestern Memorial Healthcare
Health Care and Social Assistance • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Northwestern Memorial Healthcareexternal

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Posted 22 days ago

Northwestern Medicine rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 398 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

New Grad Registered Nurse Residency-Neuroscience Progressive Unit Full-time Nights

Northwestern Memorial Hospital is proud to offer all new graduate Registered Nurses enrollment into our ANCC Accredited RN Residency Transition into Practice Program. Full-time, 36 hours per week. Three (12-hour shifts) from 7:00 PM - 7:30 AM.

Our team cares for neurosurgical, stroke, general neurosciences, and epilepsy patients. The Neuroscience Progressive unit is a 29-bed unit comprised of a neuroscience step down, neuroscience floor, and epilepsy monitoring unit. Our nurses are trained to work in all areas of this unit allowing them to experience caring for the neurological population at various phases of the care continuum.

The role of the professional clinical nurse is unique and essential to the care of the patient. The nurse demonstrates that unique and essential function through the framework for nursing practice. Responsibilities include advocating for patients, advancing clinical expertise, volunteering in the community, and being compassionate and professionally engaged.

Required qualifications include a graduate of an NLN accredited school/college of nursing, baccalaureate degree in nursing or higher, current State of Illinois, Registered Professional Nurse license, and Basic Life Support (BLS) CPR through American Heart Association. Preferred qualifications include experience in a specific clinical area and nursing specialty certification, if eligible.

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