Should I Take an RN Refresher course?

[PurpleDelight]

I graduated from a BSN program in Dec 2012 and passed the boards in April 2 2013. Since then I haven't been able to work in an acute care environment. I got into a home care agency last month and only had a two week case (it was only 5 hours a day giving meds and watching a seizure client). Did I mention that I had no training as a new grad in homecare and they can just throw me to a case (usually an LPN case because they are easier)?. Anyway this homecare agency wants to let me go any because my work permit is expiring (the reason why I could not get a hospital job). So as you can see my problem actually has to do with my immigration status in America and I do not know when that will be solved. I guess you can call me a "DREAMer" when it comes to immigration status. I went through middle/high school and nursing school here but I haven't been able to work because of this. I really love nursing and I graduated with honors and a member of sigma theta tau. Anyway, long story short since I do not know when my status will be valid will an RN refresher course be a good idea. I honestly am beginning to forget everything I learned in school and it sometimes brings me to tears. I use to so articulate and "sharp" when it came to nursing and anyone who knew me in school knew this. They would be surprised to see how I am today. All my friends in nursing have good jobs and I have not spoken to them because I am depressed and it is hard to see people who were on the same boat with succeed when you are not.

So if my immigration status gets fixed somehow do you think an RN Refresher course will be a good idea? How long are they?

[JustBeachyNurse, LPN]

RN refreshers are not cheap (most are $1,000-$3,000+)'but they generally include theory, hands on skills lab and clinical so they can be beneficial to refresh your knowledge and clinical skills. There are also continuing education classes that are hands on such as those for IV/venous access, enteral feeding (NG, NJ, GB, GT, JT etc) care and administration, respiratory care of trach & vent patients that may be of benefit to you if you have the time & funds. However none of these classes will extend your immigration status so if you get that fixed and have the funds, go for it as it will boost your clinical confidence and may expose you to further clinical contacts.

[JustBeachyNurse, LPN]

Check your board of nursing as most list approved refresher classes. Often offered through county college nursing continuing education programs. The ones I've seen are 4-6 weeks part time.