Mandated RN refresher course?

Jolie, BSN · Jun 2, 2005

times roman
Can anyone tell me if it is a requirement or mandate for a registered ICU nurse with 20 years experience but who has not actively practiced nursing since 1999 to go through an RN refresher course?
I have been going to school to get my Bachelors in Health Administration and Public Health but would like to work in nursing part time. Are there options for me to consider that would welcome my experience? I am 49 and wonder if there are nursing avenues that would welcome an experienced nurse more so than hospitals who are pursuing new graduates. Does anyone know of specific hospitals who welcome experienced older nurses?

Do you have an active IL license? If so, then a refresher is not required in order for you to resume nursing practice. If you have an inactive IL license, then I'm not sure what would be required. I would recommend checking with DPR regarding your license, then contacting some local recruiters. I know of nurses who have returned to work after absences longer than yours by going thru "new grad" orientation programs. Good luck!

santefe · Jun 4, 2005

Do you have an active IL license? If so, then a refresher is not required in order for you to resume nursing practice. If you have an inactive IL license, then I'm not sure what would be required. I would recommend checking with DPR regarding your license, then contacting some local recruiters. I know of nurses who have returned to work after absences longer than yours by going thru "new grad" orientation programs. Good luck!

I really appreciated your answering my question...thank-you very much.

Trauma Columnist · Jun 4, 2005

I would welcome working with a 49 y/o experienced nurse. Just curious - what are you planning to do with your education? Thanks.

santefe · Jun 9, 2005

I would welcome working with a 49 y/o experienced nurse. Just curious - what are you planning to do with your education? Thanks.

I have kept my Illinois and Ccalifornia license current. I wanted to get a bachelor's degree to complete a higher level of education. My college

advisor suggested I look into a B.S. program in Public Health or administration

since I have an interest in disease management and an interest in the business side of medicine. She said I would have more opportunities to choose a greater number of courses from business and education departments that would round out a fuller knowledge base that is more limited in the bachelors' in nursing.

I looked at the school's catalog and agreed. I have been able to take more

management, marketing and health education courses with the

dual degree. It has allowed me to take courses that are limited to business and education majors. It is taking a longer time period than I originally intended so I have only been working part-time for a solo practioner. Ideally I would like to work case management, ICU hospital nursing or senior assisted living residence facility.

Trauma Columnist · Jun 11, 2005

Currently, I'm a case manager and I think with that education, you would fit in nicely. Good luck.