Out of school and licensed since 2 009

Nurses Retired

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Hello, I graduated from nursing school and became licensed in 2009 but due to caring for my father till he passed away , becoming pregnant then staying home to raise my daughter I haven't worked. Time has passed by too fast and as a result I don't feel prepared to start working as an rn. I'm in desperate need of advice as to what to do to better prepare myself for employment and to become more appealing to employers . All advice and suggestions are truly appreciated. Thanks in advance

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Specializes in Hospice.

Take a refresher course . Best wishes

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I was in the same boat, 4years ago. Worked 6 years then out for 12 to stay home with my kids and also caring for my ailing parents. I was shocked that NO-ONE WOULD EVEN CONSIDER ME. I was devistated to say the least. I looked into taking an RN refresher course; did so through the University of Delaware. It was grueling, but got through it. Then did a short preceptorship through a local hospital. Then, still had some trouble. I even considered volunteering at all the local hospitals, hoping someone would see the potential. I had great experience, however.... I started getting aggressive with applying everywhere I could. Even offered to work as a nursing assistant; was told I couldn't do that; was "over qualified? I managed to get a few interviews at a local hospital ; still, reluctant to hire me!! Finally applied to a part time position at a nursing home, as a shift supervisor, which was not my first choice. I pumped up my resume and went into the interview with determination and I landed the job! Stayed at that job for 2 years, learned a lot and re-learned a lot as well. Then, I applied for a home care job, which I had always wanted to do. I got the job , easily , since I had Supervising experience now, and have been there ever since and LOVE IT. I consider my self very lucky. The nursing home job I finally got; the DON, told me that had I NOT, taken that RN refresher course, she would not of hired me. So, go take a refresher course, it may really help you get a job, finally. You may have to take a job, you don't really like , but, it could lead you to the job you really do want. Do every thing you have to do , to get interviews and sell yourself for the awesome nurse that I'm sure you are!,í ½í¸€í ½í¸€í ½í¸€. Good luck. You can do it!

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Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with me. I feel better now knowing that there is hope for me yet. Do you have any recommendations/ suggestions on how I can better prepare myself before starting a refresher course? I want to avoid becoming too overwhelmed.

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Any suggestions that you think will help me succeed without too much stress in a refresher course?

Thank you so much.

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Specializes in cardiac/education.

If you took care of your dying father and are raising a child I don't think the refresher will be too challenging for you so don't sweat it.

I was licensed in 2007 but left after only a few months to raise children as well. 5 years later attempted to return. Took a refresher. Still wasn't enough with an ADN so went back for my RN-BSN on my dime. Then I was able to get a job. So it is possible. Do you have an associate's or a bachelor's?

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I have an ADN. I've been thinking of returning to school for a bachelor's but I don't know what would be best. Do I take a refresher course and to try to find a job or do I forget the refresher and go for a BSN. Would you recommend online or classroom courses? Any advice is greatly appreciated

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