JUST passed nclex, BUT been out of school for over a yr. need some advice!!

[onfire4gzuz]

Ok, everyone I graduated summer of 07 and I just passed my boards, jan 09.(Long story of why I just took them, but I studied hard, took them, and passed!) I'm ready to start working as a nurse the only thing holding me back is alot of the hands on procedures I kinda dont remember. Like drawing blood, putting in Ivs, caths, and trach care, and I kinda dont know what to do cause if I go to work in a docs office they are going to expect me to know these things. My main question is, if I go to work in a hospital, I know they orient you for a couple weeks, will I get a chance for someone to show me the procedure again or not. And my last question, I saw in my area where there is a refresher class thats teaching how to put in caths ivs, draw blood, trachs, everything I need! its 275$! Should I take this refresher class, or lean on the hospital to orient me, help me out guys! THANKS

[ybstressed, LVN]

i would take the class. what if the person training you was doing something incorrectly? i think the class would benefit you since you have been out so long. also, if you’re a lvn, you might not get a job in the hospital and most doctor offices, and ltc's, expect you to know the procedures. and if an employer has doubts about you since you waited so long to take your boards and to get a job you can show them you have refreshed your skills. plus, you could show your new employer that you are the great nurse by performing each procedure accurately and efficiently!!!!