2010 board passer, did not practice nursing ever

hi lesrn2010

To answer your question, I have no idea whether PRC still allows nurses to take the Midwifery Licensure exam even if you just have an MCN component in your studies. Best to ask PRC directly about this.

As for hemodialysis training, there are many institutions offering a course for a hefty fee. They have varying durations and amounts which requires you to do a bit of research for each program available for you to make the most out of it.

For advice regarding coming back and practicing as a nurse, there are many questions that you need to answer for yourself. Like what is the compelling reason for you to practice the profession? Is it just because of the envy of seeing your previous classmates who are reaping the fruits of what they previously sow? Will you be able to handle starting from scratch and living at a wage way below what you currently receive? Do you think you'll be able to maintain the drive to stick with the decision of practicing nursing even though it's been weeks, months or years and you still haven't found a work/training ground? These are just some of the issues that you need to have an answer to help you come up with a decision.

I fully understand that each of our circumstances dictate the actions that we do today and what we plan for the future. I can't blame you for choosing the path that you've chosen before. It must've been the best thing to do during that time for you, and as I've said, it all depends on the present circumstances.

If ever you decide to practice nursing again, let me just give some advice. The profession is rewarding in many aspects, but it isn't all rainbows and butterflies. I can vouch that these friends of yours who are now working abroad have had their fair share of discouraging experiences in the profession before they achieved what they presently have. This is not to scare you or anything, but just to present the reality and let you know that while they seem so successful today, it's because they've worked really hard for it. Behind all those glamorous FB posts are humiliation, sacrifice, dumb moments, tears, and everything else in between.

Best of luck to whatever path you choose. May you come up to the best possible decision you can have, and have an unwavering resilience to stand up against the challenges that might come your way.

Hi @dodoy! Can I re-post/share your above comment my facebook? Thanks!

Sure thing.

It's never too late to consider a change of career specially if you are considering a move back to nursing. I made that move 4 years ago after years of contemplating it. It was not an easy choice, my whole world turned upside down and going back meant giving up the career, salary and the corporate culture I had gotten myself attached and accustomed to.

I heard, some changes were already implemented in terms of getting an RM license. You probably would need to take required academic units from any qualified schools offering midwifery before you are allowed to take the RM board exam.

If possible, try looking for a hospital that could employ you as a staff nurse then take the training, additional licensure etc., once you have gained the hospital experience. Additional trainings/ qualifications do not necessarily increase your chances of being hired as an entry level nurse and landing a job in any hospitals isn't really easy at all.

hi MikeeMikes26, thanks for the advice. The problem is I'm not confident with my nursing skills anymore. Nursing is my biggest fear, probably due to traumatic experiences, nursing school wasn't fun for me. It's like I need to do it because I am supposed to (go abroad like everyone else) and it won't be a happy place for me, that's for sure... I know I'm not ready to give up my job (which I love), face my fears and risk everything.

I had a fair share of equally traumatic and frustrating experiences too as a student but don't let all those things make you doubt yourself as a nurse. Things we learned as student nurses are entirely different when you are already working as a real professional nurse. Learning continues until now and as long as you are eager to learn and you are doing no harm to your patients, I'm pretty sure you'll be okay.

Just think about this, you've surpassed four years of grueling nursing school, and you've also passed the board exam. Don't you think these things pretty make a strong statement that you have the necessary qualifications to practice as a nurse? Remember, not everyone is as privileged as you are so go and start becoming the awesome nurse that you are!