How long can I wait to begin my practice?

[lmz]

I got my RN license Juen 2004, then became a mama Oct 2004. I have not yet WORKED as an RN. I was a good student and planned to make positive impacts in the lives of my patients and the nursing profession. I aspire to become a nurse educator. But now, I feel my job is to be mama to my son, until he is a year old. I am so fortunate that my husband's work can easily support us. Still, I am afraid I will not get hired if I wait 16 months to begin my practice. Will I still be competetive with other new, more recent grads? I'm accruing CEU's to maintain my license, and if I start work next October, I'll have one year to get the minimum number of clinical hours I need to maintain my license. Your input would be appreciated.

Thanks!

lmz

[suzanne4, RN]

You can begin when ever you feel that you are ready to, don't worry about it.

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

Workplaces would be happy to hire you.

[jeepgirl, LPN, NP]

you could work prn to keep your skills up.... 1-2 days a month

[MaleRN2B]

Motherhood is a noble profession. If your future employer doesn't value that then it's really their loss. Just maintain your certifications.

Marc

[caye]

I admire your dedication to your child. Being a parent is the hardest job in the world. However, you might consider working part-time or prn to maintain your confidence. You might be able to do this when you have someone to care for your baby like on a weekend.

Regardless of when, do what is best for you. Most facilities would be happy to have you. There is such a nursing shortage all over our country.

Good luck and God bless.

Caye

I got my RN license Juen 2004, then became a mama Oct 2004. I have not yet WORKED as an RN. I was a good student and planned to make positive impacts in the lives of my patients and the nursing profession. I aspire to become a nurse educator. But now, I feel my job is to be mama to my son, until he is a year old. I am so fortunate that my husband's work can easily support us. Still, I am afraid I will not get hired if I wait 16 months to begin my practice. Will I still be competetive with other new, more recent grads? I'm accruing CEU's to maintain my license, and if I start work next October, I'll have one year to get the minimum number of clinical hours I need to maintain my license. Your input would be appreciated.

Thanks!

lmz