How to keep up RN skills as a jobhunting new grad

[SFRN225]

I graduated last May from a masters entry program (now with RN/MSN), and am looking for my first RN bedside job (ideally acute adult care). Meanwhile I volunteer in 4 community health settings. But I worry about my inpatient nursing skills getting really rusty, since what I'm able to do as a volunteer with outpatients (vitals, blood sugars, health ed, occasional flu shots) is pretty limited compared with what I'll be expected to do once I finally land a new grad hospital job. Who knows when this market is going to improve! Besides reviewing my nursing skills and med surg books, do you working nurses out there have any advice or encouragement? Thanks!

[chevyv, BSN, RN]

I worried about losing my skills while looking for a job as well. I have to say that the skills I learned weren't cemented anyway. Can you look into the school you graduated from and see if you can come to the skills lab and practice while looking to land that job? I know our lab instructor well and she would have loved to have us come in when it was slow (with permission of course). Just a thought.

[caliotter3]

Don't be distracted when job hunting. Job hunting is a full time job in itself. Set aside X amount of time each day for review to satisfy your mind, but concentrate on your job search. There will be plenty of time to get immersed in skills once you start your first job. Good luck.