Maintaining BLS while not currently working

[hookemhorns012]

I am now a SAHM and do not have plans to return to nursing for a while. I am keeping my license active, but am unsure if I need to keep my BLS active. I am in Texas if this makes a difference! Is it just helpful to have it current or could I get in trouble for not having it? I didn't see anything about it on the BON website and feel silly asking my colleagues if this is a dumb question ?

[Oldmahubbard]

Not a dumb question. If something came up in your home, the neighborhood, or even the grocery store, would you want to be able to respond?

[C_M_L_R18]

I see no harm in keeping it, it’s only a 2 hour class and it’s good for 2 years

[hookemhorns012]

Excellent points! There is no harm in keeping it and I definitely want to be ready if I am needed to jump in during an emergency situation. I will keep it up-to-date, but wanted to see if this is a 'rule' people follow or just a good habit to keep ?

[grobertson10]

I wish I was you ?

[klone, MSN, RN]

No, no rule that you have to keep it. But if you take another RN job, you will be required to get it before you can work.

[Crash_Cart]

No, it's not a BON requirement if that's what you are asking.

It's an employer requirement.

[klone, MSN, RN]

Half the jobs my husband has worked at as an RN has not required BLS at all (hospice).

[Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN]

You do not need to keep your BLS active while unemployed or to maintain/renew your nursing license.

[ruby_jane, BSN, RN]

You don't HAVE to....but would it make it easier for you to jump on board in a minute once you found your dream job?

Rhetorical question. I don't know if you're into this but if you got certified as a BLS instructor you could do a few classes here and there at your leisure.

[Barbara Cofer]

I am retired but may return to work part time. I have not kept up with CPR certification. I think many jobs will train on the job too.

[ChiTown NP]

Keep your BLS current , never know when an opportunity will come .