BSN, little experience, took time off for baby, job prospects?

Published

Hi,

Have any of you taken time off when you were a new RN to raise kids and then got back to nursing a year or more later without encountering too many obstacles to land a position?

I graduated in 2017 with my BSN. I worked on a med/surg unit for only 6 months before I had a baby. I would have gone back following baby, but I was living far from family so no help, realized real fast that childrearing is HARD so wanted to focus on that, AND my husband was being relocated 6 months later anyway. We are now living in our new state and I have maintained my license, but have not worked in over a year. I am feeling more confident as a mom and would like to get back to nursing. My question is: with my little experience, am I screwed? Friends have told me I may have to start over as a "new grad" (ugh I was just about to make it off nights!), which makes sense as I feel like I forget a ton (but I'm sure a lot comes back fast). That said, when I look at job postings, most new grad residencies say you can only apply if you graduated within 6-12 months. So I don't fit that criteria. I haven't applied anywhere yet, and the worst that happens when I submit applications is I don't hear back so I should just go for it and apply to any positions that interest me, but I was wondering if any of you have been in this position. I worked very hard in school and professionally so I would hate to throw that away. Thanks for any wisdom you can share!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

You are no longer a new grad. You are just going to have to apply and see what you get. You will have to probably take anything at this point to get experience.

2
Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Critical Care; Cardiac; Professional Development.

You will not be qualified for new grad residencies and yes, you very likely will have to take less desirable shifts to start out with to get your foot back in the door. However, if you return to the specialty you were at, you probably will get some interviews. Don't limit yourself though to applying only for nights; get those resumes out there, write a good cover letter and nail the interview. I think your odds are decent.

2
Up Vote Up Vote ×

Thank you for your responses, @not.done.yet and @LovingLife123. I will apply to a bunch of positions, but I think you are right that I will end up back on a similar floor to what I was on before--which I am ok with!!

1
Up Vote Up Vote ×

It's only been 18 months since you left, right? Do you live in an area with a nursing shortage, or where there are plenty of applicants for every job? I don't think you are at a disadvantage; you haven't been out for years and years. You will likely need a good orientation but any decent facility will give that to you anyhow.

I would keep your resume brief, like one page, and write a cover letter that humorously covers the events of the past two years.

1
Up Vote Up Vote ×

I don't have any advice but I just wanted you to know that you're not alone. I graduated with my BSN, worked a year (acute inpatient psych) then had to take time off because my baby was born premature. After being off for 9 months, I just starting to apply for a new job. Its scary but I think you can do it! You have 6 months of med-surg experience, that's great! If you have a specialty you have your eyes on maybe focus on getting CEUs on that topic and use that as a selling point in your cover letter.

Good luck.

2
Up Vote Up Vote ×

@orro, BSN, RN: thank you! It's nice to know I'm not alone. I have actually been thinking about a few certifications I am interested in today. Great idea! Good luck to you in your job search! ?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

@MEINstudent thank you for the encouragement and tips! I will stay optimistic. I've definitely gained a sense of humor and some new skills as a mom, that's for sure ?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion