Hoping to walk again after breaking my neck, what jobs are there for me?

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

It's inspiring to hear about your determination to recover and return to the workforce! It hasn't been all that long since your injury, so be sure and give yourself all the time needed for recovery. After that, your provider may give you essential work restrictions.

Fortunately, you have extensive experience, your BSN, and the resilience you've shown in overcoming such a significant challenge. There are definitely opportunities available for you. You have much to offer.

Updating Your Resume

Your resume and cover letter are what get you in before you have an opportunity to wow them in person. Their importance cannot be overemphasized, and you must be strategic and tailor both to each potential employer. How do you accomplish that?

In my book How to Land Your Next Nursing Job, I provide examples and discuss cover letters and effective resumes in the nursing world in depth. As a former hiring manager, I know the insider do's and don't's of applications, including how to get past ATS (applicant tracking software). 

• Highlight your skills and experience. Given your diverse background in hospice, home care, and various specialties, make sure to list all relevant skills. Focus on transferable competencies, especially those that may not require heavy physical exertion initially, like patient education, care coordination, or telehealth.
• Address your break. Consider adding a brief note in your cover letter or resume that highlights your commitment to recovery. This will show potential employers you're proactive and dedicated and explain your employment gap.
• Emphasize continuous learning. If you've taken any courses or training during your recovery—like online workshops, certifications, or even skills refreshers—include those to show your commitment to professional development.
• Format matters. Use a clean, modern format that's easy to read and has ample white space. You may consider a functional resume format if you want to highlight skills over chronological experience, especially since you might be transitioning back after your injury.

Exploring Job Opportunities

• Consider work-from-home positions. You can filter for these in your job search engine (e.g., Indeed.com) to get an idea of what's available.
• Telehealth positions. With the rise of telehealth, many healthcare providers are seeking nurses who can conduct remote assessments and consultations. Your experience in hospice and home care would be highly relevant here.
• Case management involves coordinating patient care and ensuring they receive necessary services and support. It often requires strong communication and organizational skills, which you likely possess with your experience.
• Patient education roles. Consider roles that focus on patient education, where you can utilize your nursing background to teach patients about their conditions, medications, and self-care strategies. Nurse navigator roles,  for example, can be very rewarding.
• Administrative roles. With your experience, you might also explore administrative positions within healthcare settings. These roles require a good understanding of clinical processes but involve less direct patient care.
• Volunteer opportunities. If you're not ready for full-time work, volunteering can be a great way to ease back into the healthcare environment while expanding your network and skill set.

Networking

• Activate your network and let everyone know you are looking for a job. Reaching out to former colleagues, joining nursing associations, and attending chapter meetings can open up job leads. Networking events, including virtual ones, can be very beneficial.
• Social media and online platforms. Use platforms like LinkedIn to showcase your experience and connect with potential employers. Join nursing groups where job postings are shared.
• Attend workshops/webinars. Engage in professional development through online workshops. This enhances your skills and allows you to meet others in your field.

Self-Care and Support

• Mental and emotional well-being. Recovering from an injury is not just physical; you experienced a trauma. Ensure you're also caring for your mental health. Consider support groups or counseling if you're feeling overwhelmed.
• Set realistic goals. Set small, achievable goals as you navigate your recovery and job search. Celebrate your progress, whether it's updating your resume or applying for a few jobs.

Conclusion

Your journey shows resilience and adaptability—qualities that are invaluable in the nursing profession. With your skills, determination, and the right approach to updating your resume and exploring job opportunities, you can definitely find a role that suits your current situation. In fact, it's the beginning of a new career within a career, one of the great things about nursing.

Remember, it's okay to take things one step at a time. You've already overcome so much, and I believe you'll continue to find success in your career!

Very best wishes,

Nurse Beth