Passed Nclex after being out of school for close to 10 years, need advice on job hunting

[Mom23Kay]

I would really appreciate advice. First let me give you a little background:

I graduated in 2004. I took my NCLEX for the first time early last year and by the grace of God, I passed.

Knowing that I needed to have recent clinical experience, I took a refresher program that was classroom/lab and 96 hours at a clinical site. I completed this right before Thanksgiving.

I have spent these last ten years raising my kids. Now, I am excited to follow my dream of becoming a nurse, but I feel at a loss.

Every single posting I see, it asks for experience of at least a year or graduated within the last year.

My question: Can I use the refresher course and apply to the recent grads?

Also would love any advice for job hunting in my situation. Also, if you know of places that are hiring, would love to know these. I do prefer to stay in Florida, especially the Jacksonville area. With that said, I am willing to move anywhere to follow this dream.

Thank you!

[Mom23Kay]

If admin could please fix my title. The first word should say passed. The edit feature would not let me edit it.

[dianah, ASN]

Wouldn't let me edit it either, sorry.

[Mom23Kay]

Thank you. I got it. I had to go advance edit.

[caliotter3]

Have you looked into a position at the site(s) where you did your refresher clinical experience? Did you approach your preceptor or other staff nurses there?

[Mom23Kay]

Yes, the unit had a hiring freeze. However, she recommended I go on the website and apply. I run in to the same problems as listed above about recent graduates and at least a year experience with this hospital.

Thank you.

[caliotter3]

You can always get your first job doing flu clinics for one of the employers that do this. Not much for employment, but it would be something to put on your resume for starters.