Keeping up with Nursing, over a year without Nursing exposure

[DarkestSamus]

Hey all,

Although I am not yet employed, I have a prospect that is looking good. Unfortunately, I have another concern - I have done basically nothing to keep up with or maintain exposure to the world of Nursing ever since my graduation in July of last year. Now that I feel close to having a great job, I realize what a huge mistake it was to do this. I lack confidence in myself and my knowledge base as a result of this. I'm trying to figure out what I should do to make myself FEEL like a Nurse again. I feel somewhat pressured to do so quickly, as I have an important interview coming up and if I get the position, I need to have my confidence or else I will screw everything up. Here's what I'm thinking...

1. Continuing Education. Problems: I don't have money to throw around, and I have NO idea how to find out what CE is available in my area (for the record, I live in San Joaquin County in Northern California).

2. Nursing Magazine Subscription? Concerns: I don't know which one to get. Also, it would probably be more valuable to me to have a large amount of issues available (such as an online subscription that would allow me to read previous issues).

3. Something else? I don't know. Any advice would be welcome.

In summary:

* Graduated last year

* Never been employed

* Did not keep up with the field of Nursing at all

* Very worried about my knowledge level and confidence as a Nurse

* Need any advice you could offer

Thank you!

[CalicoKitty, BSN, MSN, RN]

There is a lot of free CE available online. http://www.medscape.com Medscape has a bunch of free CE (and they have a CE tracker, so you don't have to add it up on your own and you can look back at it). They also have a large selection of articles that don't have CE available (stuff older than 1 year or so). Sure memberships (ANA and other nursing organizations) are probably too expensive right now, there are other things you could do to try to show that you are trying to keep up with the fields. Other things like keeping your CPR/BLS up to date, as well as maybe getting certifications like ACLS or PALS. This costs money, but they are certifications you an list on your resume.

I'd suggest doing some volunteer work if you have time but no money. As a volunteer, always be professional, and perhaps you'll get a networking opportunity.

For the job search, you may have to branch out. You may have to look for jobs out of your area or state. You also need a good "story" for why you haven't found a job. I realize that it isn't uncommon for a new graduate to be unemployed a year later, but you will get asked. I'd also suggest getting _any_ job at this point if you're not currently working. It doesn't even have to be in a medical field (that would be a plus, though). And again, volunteer if you have the time (especially if you're working in a non-medical field).

Make sure you have a decent resume.