getting back slowly- any suggestions?

Hi,

I graduated in 2006 with a BSN and started to work but left Nursing only a few months when an opportunity to get back to my old career came up. From all accounts, I did well while I was there - I finished orientation without any extension needed, got good reviews from my preceptor, and got a general feeling that the rest of the staff was happy with my work.

Now that has finished and I'm thinking of going back into RN-ing. I liked my floor (post cardiac procedure -open heart, stent, etc.), but since a few years have gone by I think that I need to start at a slower pace rather than just jump in again. Can anyone suggest an avenue that might be good for someone who is rusty?

Also, I'm concerned that I might have pretty bad timing to get back in with all these threads about even up-to-date RNs having problems getting work. For me, I think I'd prefer an alternative to the hospital, given my need to get reacquainted.

Thanks,

Dave