GoodDay2017

Also get certificates relating to unit you want to show you are doing everything you can to get yourself up to speed. ACLS PALS BLS NRP STABLE ....

1. Is your RN current? If not, look into what you need to do. 2. Check with BRN, do you need refresher course? If so, look for one with a clinical on the floor component. 3. Figure out "Your story." Why you left, what you have been doing to stay relevant, and why you want to return. 4. Craft an updated resume and cover letter. 5. Start applying and networking. 6. Get ready for those interviews. Behavorial questions are all the rage now. Learn about how to answer them. 7. Stay positive. RNInterview Tools. Find them on facebook for many more tips.

Agree with above. I would state why I was out even in my resume. I listed my time away as "Student, Volunteer, Homemaker. Chose to focus on raising children after husband unexpectedly passed away. Furthered professional development through continued education, per diem positions, and volunteering." Short, to the point, what happened, and what you have been doing to stay relevant. In an interview, same thing but add in that you are excited to come back to nursing and ready to dive back in. Hope that helps.

You can also get experience / hours by volunteering at any midwife run clinics or breastfeeding groups (even hospital based groups). Many appreciate the assistance and are happy to teach.

Be careful with refresher courses. Online courses are usually just ATS type questions all over again which was pretty boring. Much better to listen to podcasts, watch youtube videos, revisit your college skils / SIM lab and get hands on with hospital pumps and newer type supplies. Find out what types of pumps, lifts, machines your new job will use and look those up. Also review basics / assessments / unit flow to your unit and find / create a brain to help you manage a full patient load so you will be ready to make the most of your few weeks (Which will fly by!)

At least better education regarding what to expect in labor and postpartum and what will be expected of them.

I wish there was a list somewhere of all these openings, with sign on bonuses, that will also take new grads. I know many new grads BSN's who would relocate if there was assistance to help them.

My opinion - Leave off address, it will be in your application. Add LinkedIn address (yes, you should have one.) Remove word "Objective" it is implied. I suggest 2-3 sentences highlighting who you are, what you bring, job applying for. Education - most only care about BSN. Can always list ADN in application. Clinicals - Hospital Name should come first. What you listed are expected. What else did you do? How many patients did you provide total care for? Did you create and inititave / do a class research paper that decreased infection rate on the unit? Managers want to see those who solve problems, will solve a problem for them. Professional Experience - Employer name should be listed first. Also think of things you helped change, make better. Your bullet points are expected. Think of how you saved company money, ensured customer satisfaction. Those are things a manager wants to see. Good start.

Its all about how you sell yourself in your resume, cover letter, and entire application. Taking a non acute job does not mean you will never get a hospital job. We see many move to acute care after 6-12 months. Its all about leaning how to correctly apply for jobs, network, continue education & certs in the unit you truly want, and then nail the interview. Yes, it can be done, even in a saturated market. Yes, even with a gap. I re entered nursing after a gap, started non acute, landed dream job. Perseverance, persistence, revising that application for every job you want, getting out there, and meeting people, is how you do it. You are on the right track. I agree, take the job that is concrete, but keep applying for jobs you truly want.

I am happy to share mine.

I agree. Bring back well baby nursery to all postpartum departments. Juggling 4 hig acuity couplets, moms who "hit the wall" at night, no family to help, or Dad is exhausted, they need a break. Being their nurse with 3 other couplets (One on Mag, SGA with unstable temps or one withdrawing) and no nursery nurse - we have to keep newborns at the nursing station and pray your peers will help watch while charting & holding baby, can get to be too much many nights! It is just not safe.