Best ways to prepare re-entering nursing after 3 yr. absence

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Specializes in tele, icu, GI, hyperbaric.

Hello everyone,

Need advice on best ways to prepare to re-enter nursing after a 3 year absence from it due to family issues that made it impossible for me to work. I need to start working again and soon. I am concerned about not being hired because of this, especially in this economy when so many nurses are looking for jobs.

I am a R.N. with lots of experience, but I am over 50 and just cannot work bedside anymore! Any ideas on updating skills, knowledge, how to get my foot in the door for an interview, etc. would be greatly appreciated. Also, how to handle the questions in the interview about my absence. I do not have anything to feel guilty about, but somehow do feel this way.

Also, any ideas on areas of nursing that are not so stressful...if there are any. I have reached that point in my life where I just want to do my job, do it well of course, but then go home and be done with it. Of course, I am returning for financial reasons and just desire a job that I can do and enjoy.

Thanks everyone!!

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How about teaching? Do you have a MSN??:idea: Tell the truth about why you haven't been working...you've just put your career on hold due to family concerns. I would understand that. What is the last job you did and liked? Just askin'.

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Specializes in pediatrics, public health.

Are you interested in public health nursing? Do you have a BSN? In most areas of the country, being a PHN requires a BSN (but not all -- check with your state's BON).

I :heartbeat public health nursing. Less stressful than bedside, reasonable hours (most PHN jobs are M-F 9-5), but can still be fun and worthwhile, especially if you enjoy patient/client education. Generally pays less than hospital jobs, but worth it if you want to avoid the stress and crazy hours of hospital nursing.

Good luck!

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Specializes in tele, icu, GI, hyperbaric.

I do not have BSN or MSN unfortunately, just a diploma. Honestly, I never have had a nursing job that I like. I hate to admit that, but it is the truth. It never has been a good fit for me and I do not know what to do. I need the income, but I also need a job that does not drain me in every aspect and I am dreading the thought of returning to nursing.

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There are multiple resources with nursing career advice. "Taking control of your career; A handbook for health professionals" by Donner & Wheeler is a helpful book.

There are good career tips in the career advice section of allnurses https://allnurses.com/nursing-career-advice/

and on donna cardillo & associates website http://www.dcardillo.com/articles.html

Good luck with your plans, I hope you find the work/life balance you are searching for.

dishes

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