Burned a bridge, how to start over??

[lawandaluxnurse, ADN, BSN]

I will keep this short, I need some advice. I have been an RN for 13 years, have done many areas, cared for a parent with alzheimers, had 2 major surgeries and others personal issues. I am finally healthy, I feel I could handle any area, unfortunately I burned a bridge or two over the last 4 to 5 years due to above issues. How do I start over in nursing? My skills are good it is just the job switching, I need to get some stability established, any ideas? Thanks

[merlee]

Don't worry about the bridges. If your skills are up-to-date, just apply for the positions you want. If not, then take a refresher course if one is offered at a local hospital.

Best wishes!

[linearthinker, DNP, RN]

Relocate and get a fresh start.

[caliotter3]

If you find you are being blacklisted in your home community even after the passage of time, then consider relocating. Easier to find work in a new environment.

[Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN]

:hug:....I'm sorry you've gone through this and I'm glad you're better.

Be honest....I've had a rough couple of years but I'm a good nurse with great skills who's fullly recovered and looking to be an asset to your floor.

Good luck

[Sugarcoma, RN]

It has been my experience that once burned it is very hard to rebuild a bridge. The best way I know, if relocation is not doable for you, is complete honesty. Tell any perspective employer why the multiple jobs, long pauses in work history etc. Tell them what you have told us, your ill health, caring for a parent with alzheimers, etc. Reassure them that those problems are in your past now and that you are at a point in your life where you are craving stability. Then if they give you a chance follow through. Try to maintain at least a two year solid history with if not the same unit then at least the same hospital. Also do not forget 4-5 years is a long time in healthcare. You may find new unit managers, hiring managers, and HR personnel. Much easier to convince someone new!

[Biffbradford]

Relocate and get a fresh start.

Makes it sound as easy as flipping a switch!

[Ruby Vee, BSN]

it has been my experience that once burned it is very hard to rebuild a bridge. the best way i know, if relocation is not doable for you, is complete honesty. tell any perspective employer why the multiple jobs, long pauses in work history etc. tell them what you have told us, your ill health, caring for a parent with alzheimers, etc. reassure them that those problems are in your past now and that you are at a point in your life where you are craving stability. then if they give you a chance follow through. try to maintain at least a two year solid history with if not the same unit then at least the same hospital. also do not forget 4-5 years is a long time in healthcare. you may find new unit managers, hiring managers, and hr personnel. much easier to convince someone new!

what she said. only i think you need to maintain a solid history with one unit for two years before you even think about moving on.

[lawandaluxnurse, ADN, BSN]

Thanks everyone!