RN refresher courses

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Having advertised my resume service in nurse.com (Nursing Spectrum) for over 20 years, I have written resumes for all levels of professionals. Many of my clients are facing challenges in getting employment. New grads who were delayed in passing their boards, experienced RNs who have not actively worked for many years and wish to return to practice and nurses who have worked in non-acute care settings and now want to be hired for bedside hospital positions...often have something in common. Many take RN refresher courses, that cost upwards to $2300 for 150 hours of classroom, simulation lab and clinical review. The question I always have is was it worthwhile? To me, its value is clearly measured by whether it helps them get the jobs they desire. I am often saddened to hear that they mainly 'observe' and get little in the way of practicing nursing skills on actual patients (wound care, tube feedings, IV management, tracheostomy care etc). If you are considering signing up for one of these courses, I encourage you to identify what you want to come away with. Are there specific skills you want get to practice? Make a list! Before signing on the dotted line (and your CHECK or credit card slip)...have a discussion with those giving the course about your goals. I would love to hear from nurses who have taken courses, particularly in the New York area about your personal experiences.