how long can you be out of OR nursing and then come back

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I have worked OR from 1998-2005. I am taking time off to be a full time mom. Do you think anyone will hire me when I decide to return?

I did the OR course certificate years ago and I was hired so I figure I know more now than then as a new grad. What do you think?

Specializes in OR.

I don't think you'll have a problem. We have an RN who did the same thing. I think she was gone for 5 years.

I have worked OR from 1998-2005. I am taking time off to be a full time mom. Do you think anyone will hire me when I decide to return?

I did the OR course certificate years ago and I was hired so I figure I know more now than then as a new grad. What do you think?

I think you should try to keep your feet wet, if only one weekend each month. Experience, while helpful, does not mean much if it is not recent and current. Too, even if you meet the required CEU's your certification will be suspended once you remain unemployed for two years. And if you haven't worked in an OR for two of the last five years, you'll have to recertify altogether. Most agencies won't try to place you unless you can prove your knowledge is up-to-date and your skills well maintained--difficult when completely away from the OR for an extended period. Too, once you loose your CNOR you loose your clout and no longer meet the documented standard expected of an experienced OR nurse. Yes, you know more now than you did as a new grad. But after a few years away from the OR, the playing field becomes pretty level for all applicants.

Specializes in Med-Surg/Oncology/Telemetry/ICU.
Ouch! :p

ouch to what?

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