Inactive RN returning to practice, what is the environment for RN's like in Wichita?

What did you find out from your discussion with your nursing instructor? Some hospitals have refresher courses available, or have had in the past, but you would probably have better luck checking with their Human Resources departments. Also, sit down and make a list of what you really want to do: is hospital nursing really what you want? Are you ready to work night shift, weekends, holidays, etc? Most newcomers get placed on night shift because that is where there are more openings. If you make it known that you are not sure of your skills, chances are you're not going to get anywhere. Other options from a recent scan of the newspaper ads are some offices are looking for nurses.

Also: if you still have kids at home, keep in mind that you are going to need backup care if they are sick--getting off work to take care of your own kids is usually not possible except as a last resort, and then you have to keep track of your absences, because only so many a year are allowed. What I was recently told was "everyone has to deal with their stresses." Be sure you're ready to do that. The hospital environment is not very supportive of mothers who stress about splitting their time between family and work. I'm blessed w/a husband who is usually able and willing to stay home the few times we've had an ill child; my manager is one of those who loads her kids up on motrin or tylenol if they just have a temp and sends them to school anyway, unless they're actively throwing up or something.

I don't mean to be discouraging, it's just something to think about. I continued working because I was afraid it would be too hard to get back in once I left. I'm sure your skills would be fine once you got back in the swing of things. Good luck!