I am an RN in Illinois with a current license. My problem is that I have not worked in the past 9 years. I did speak with 3 nurse recruiters at local hospitals and they all recommended I take a refresher course. None of them could tell me of any so I had to research myself. I found 2 online but you have to arrange your clinical rotation yourself. The other one isn't exactly local and these cost between $1000-2000!
Add your voice! Click below to answer. ThriftyFun is powered by your wisdom!
Have you contacted your local college nursing program to see if they offer such a course? Have you had to take classes/workshops for continuing education credits to keep your license?
Nine years is a while, but have you thought about applying at a long-term care facility in your area? They tend to be not as stringent with their experience requirements. Even part time at first just to get your feet wet again , then when you have some experience can think about other options. A good facility will be willing to give you extensive orientation and make sure you are ready to be on your own.
I'm willing to bet that a local employer would be willing to sponsor your refresher course in exchange for an employment contract for a set amount of time. Try calling local nurse recruiters and see if they'll help. The cost of your refresher course could serve in lieu of a sign on bonus, and if you frame it that way surely someone will see that it makes sense.
Good luck!
I want to echo the long-term care place, not only will they be glad to have you, they have such complex medical situations in their patients that you would be refreshed quick. Or you could take a job at a lesser level of training for a few months which would serve nicely.
Wow - I know what you mean! I was an LPN and out of the field for just over 3 years. Nobody wanted to take the chance on me. I went ahead and applied with an assisted living,which gave the opportunity to practice a bit of skills and get re-familiarized with the routines,labs,med passes, etc.
I have a similar problem in a different career area. I'm thinking of working through temporary agencies for a while until I feel I'm up-to-date. I also think we need a mentor - someone to tell us what we need to do to catch up and what opportunities are available to us. Maybe you could find one at your local technical school or college where they teach nursing.
Hello I am also an RN and been out of hospital work for 18 years.I used to work in MICU. However presently I work two days a week in a doctors office doing clerical work and occasional patient care. However I want to further my skills in Nursing.
Add your voice! Click below to answer. ThriftyFun is powered by your wisdom!
