From Homeless to Job Searching

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Hi Nurse Beth,

I have been with physical dilemmas preventing working for the last 5 years. I had a bad time when my mother passed that led to homelessness and trying to get on my feet and my sanity from there. I managed to keep my LVN license intact with classes but lapsed on fees. Well I recently paid the $800 fee to have my license active but don't know what I would be an adequate candidate for in my field since 10 years have passed since working in a ltc/snf and home health. Any suggestions?
I also during that time earned a Life Coach certificate and would like to know how to incorporate this?

Dear Suggestions,

I'm sorry for the loss of your mother.

You lost everything but managed to hold onto your LVN license, which shows determination. A part of you didn't give up completely. You didn't come this far with an intact nursing license for nothing.

It's hard to re-enter the workforce after several years and it will take a certain amount of courage on your part. But if you really want this, you can do it. All you need is your first chance.

It can be easier finding a job in LTC/SNF than other markets. Identify the potential employers in your area, apply and persevere. Reach out to old contacts. If you do not give up, you can make this happen.

Your self-confidence will return. As far as the Life Coach certificate, take whatever you learned and apply it to your personal life, but your ticket to employment is your LVN license, not your Life Coach certificate.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

Start your job search today!

[caliotter3]

You would still have no problem getting on with home health agencies to provide extended care. Explain to the DON that you have been away from nursing and ask for some extra orientation and perhaps an "easier" case to start with. You are to be commended for your efforts to reenter the workforce, so don't sell yourself short.