Online refresher or nursing school?

[mrst84]

I need other nurses opinions. Like many of you here, I too have been out of nursing, but I've been out 19 years to raise my kids. I am planning going back into it because currently I work in retail, and it's only a matter of time before my position is either eliminated or the store closes. I got my license re-registered, and did the infection control class required by my state. I applied for a nursing home position, got an interview, and was able to shadow a nurse in the facility. I didn't get the job, but realized I need to go back to school for a refresher.

Now this is where I need your input. I've done a 'Net search for RN refresher course online. Do they work? Or would they work for someone who hasn't been out of the profession as long as I have? The closest and only refresher program in my area is 1.5 hours drive away from my home. The other option I've been thinking about is auditing a nursing class at my local community college. I would audit med/surg for the experience since I already am an RN. I am in no real rush right now, as the nursing class is only available in the spring. I'd have to jump through all the same hoops as a student (fees, books, and physical), and get permission from the department. Probably the chairperson. Thanks for any input!

[Flames9_RN, BSN, RN, EMT-B]

I did a refresher here in Maryland.....Was two parts...first was theory...1 could do it in the classroom or online..I did it online.....2nd part was the hospital part....did 1 weekend at the school lab, and then 4 weekends on a med-surg floor. The theory was sort of a waste of time..1 can do that on ur own...but to get a guaranteed spot in the clinical, you had to take the theory. This was through a community college, which was approved by MD BON.

[hmvassar, ASN, RN]

I would look up NCLEX prep courses that focus on content. They are going to teach you the minimum amount if things you need to pass the NCLEX. The NCLEX tests for minimum competency so it would be like you are a new nurse starting with the basics. I recommend Hurst. If you need help with skills, I would compile a list of basic skills that you want to brush up on and use youtube. Others you will learn on the job during training.

[Jedrnurse, BSN, RN]

With the huge waitlists for nursing programs, is auditing a course really an option in the schools near you?

[kmd1287]

Hey...I am taking a nurse refresher course in Maryland starting next month. How was the job search when you were done? did you start looking for jobs before you were done clinical or did you wait?

[Flames9_RN, BSN, RN, EMT-B]

Hey...I am taking a nurse refresher course in Maryland starting next month. How was the job search when you were done? did you start looking for jobs before you were done clinical or did you wait?

Applied for 2 jobs.....got 2 jobs.....so I guess it went well,lol