Janette Wilkinson, MN, PMHNP
Start Your Oregon Nursing Career
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner
Willamette Health & Wellness in Portland, OR
From Student to Nurse: Taking Your First Steps as a New Graduate
Graduating from nursing school marks a major accomplishment, but a new graduate’s journey into professional practice is just beginning. In Oregon, new nurses are supported by a wealth of resources, including residency programs and mentorship opportunities, designed to make the transition from student to practicing nurse as smooth and rewarding as possible.
Passing the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN
The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is the final step toward becoming a licensed nurse. Every nursing graduate must pass the NCLEX-RN (for registered nurses) or NCLEX-PN (for practical nurses) to begin practicing.
Preparing for the NCLEX is a serious undertaking, and Oregon’s nursing programs are nationally recognized for their commitment to student success. Approximately 84.1% of graduates from Oregon nursing programs pass the NCLEX on their first attempt, compared to the national average of 82.3%.
Most students sit for the NCLEX within a few weeks to a few months of graduation. Your nursing school will guide you through the application and registration process, ensuring you meet all requirements set by the Oregon State Board of Nursing (OSBN).
Transition-to-Practice (TTP) and Nurse Residency Programs
Once you pass the NCLEX, many new nurses participate in Transition-to-Practice (TTP) programs or formal nurse residency programs. These programs provide structured support during the first year of employment, helping you bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world clinical practice.
In Oregon, TTP and residency programs are available in a wide range of healthcare settings, from large metropolitan hospitals to smaller community health centers. These programs typically offer:
- Extended clinical orientation with experienced nurse preceptors
- Regular seminars focused on clinical reasoning, patient safety, and professional development
- Emotional support through peer cohorts and mentorship relationships
- Opportunities to rotate through different specialty units before choosing a focus area
For a current list of TTP and nurse residency programs available in Oregon, browse our list of state-specific healthcare systems below! Click on the healthcare system's logo to connect directly with more information about current opportunities.
Do you offer a nurse residency or transition-to-practice program at your Oregon facility? Contact us to have your organization added!
Finding Your First Nursing Job
Oregon offers numerous opportunities for newly licensed nurses, with a robust job market across various practice settings and regions. Whether you envision yourself in acute care, outpatient clinics, or long-term care, there’s a place for you to begin building your future.
Browse common job search tools below to help you start your search!
indeed.com – Enter your own search criteria to find employment opportunities in Oregon and beyond. Best of all, your search criteria can be saved for repeat use!
Leading Age Oregon Career Section – Listings submitted by partner organizations, including community based care, residential care and assisted living and retirement home settings.
Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems – Visit OAHHS for a list and links to Oregon’s hospitals.
Oregon Employment Department – The Oregon Employment Department updates postings on a daily basis. Check back often for information on opening nursing positions throughout Oregon
Oregon Health Care Association Career Page – Job listings for senior care and long-term care facilities.
Oregon Nurses Association Job Board – Oregon nursing positions.
