Evolution2011

I tried to do it that way too at first, use the theoretical part of a refresher course to jumpstart studying for NCLEX. Programmatically there just isn't a program designed for that. Some online refresher programs may let you do the theoretical review without a license, then take NCLEX, then do the clinical after you have your license (but you are then back to trying to find the clinical situation on your own). I finally took the ATI Testing online course, with one of their coaches. This gave me the structure to begin to tackle the job of reviewing all of nursing (because where do you begin when you're going to eat an elephant?). They have content mastery assessments to help you know when you have studied 'enough' in a particular area, so you can move through the course efficiently and not overstudy any one area. Another classmate in the refresher class used the Kaplan online course for her NCLEX review (she is a foreign trained nurse who also hadn't been in a hospital in 20 years). We each devoted about 3 months to studying using different courses. It can be done, you just need a structure, and you need to be ready to make it the #1 priority in your life for several months!

I am currently in the Grossmont program, having just completed the first week. My situation is like yours, former psych nurse, out of nursing 20+ years, just recently passed NCLEX-RN to reinstate my license. The reason I chose this program is because they offer a REAL clinical refresher, 8 weeks (3 shifts each week) in a very reputable acute hospital, with committed preceptors and a structured program. In contrast most online refresher programs, and even some 'live' programs are much more expensive AND you have to find your own clinical setting and preceptor (very iffy these days). This course seems very much like nursing school. The first 8 weeks (before clinical) are lectures in the classroom with a skills lab about once a week. The class has about 20 RNs in it, and four of us are from out of town, having found rooms to rent during the week, and go home on the weekends, or, depending on the distance, won't go home much. For someone with so much time out of nursing, so far I recommend it as the best option currently available (and I have looked nationally). I don't know if there is still availability to join this semester's group. The next one begins in January. You can call the program office for additional info:(619) 956-4300

i would jump at the chance to work at Kaiser in San Diego. Yes, it's a demanding place, but they are very committed to excellence in practice. Many, many fine nurses and more and more physician-nurse collaborative practice experiences happening there. Go for it. San Diego is a great place to live too!

Platinum Healthcare Staffing has a contract with Coalinga. Currently they require two years of licensure. However, they have a contract beginning in September for less experienced nurses, including new grads. I know this because I'm in the middle of my approval process.

I think that the wisest thing to do is to approach this with your eyes wide open and VERY realistically. Use this site to better understand the job market, especially in your area. Since you are new to the site, you may find a BIG difference between the perception still prevalent in the mainstream that nursing is a great career because of the shortage of nurses, and the reality on the streets among those trying to find work. Go up to the Regions tab and find the discussions in your state to get a better idea of what's going on there...including the ADN vs BSN decision. Good Luck!