Stay at home mom for 4 years...want to work again

[jlh18]

Hello! After graduating with an ADN degree several years ago, I worked on an Ortho/Neuro unit for two years, then on OB/Gyn physician office for two years. A few circumstances occurred that led me to the decision to be a stay at home mother. The regret is that I did not work PRN, just to stay in the loop of nursing. Four year later, I'm ready to work, at least on a part time basis or PRN. Not sure that I really want to go back to nursing though. The reasons: Feeling incompetent to practice in a safe manner (felt this even while working as RN working on the floor), out of touch with my previous nursing skills, nervousness and dread just thinking about it.

I love the aspect of caring for patients, both healthy (OB) and ill, I just feel that my critical thinking skills are just not up to par to the standard of what a nurse should have. I tend to prefer less acute settings.

Im evaluating if nursing is the right career for me at this time. I would love to use my degree and not to start again from scratch with a different career path, but if I decide I want to continue with nursing, Im not opposed to obtaining a BSN.

Can anyone provide feedback as to a nursing career path based on the above info? Any particular nursing field, like management? I was considering Case Management as an option.

Also, if I end up getting some courage and want to go back to floor nursing, any suggestions as to how to tune up my nursing knowledge/skills prior to returning? I have three young children (two in school), so its a bit challenging to sit for any amount of time!

Thank you! I greatly appreciate any kind feedback.

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

Welcome to AN! Having been out of the nursing job for quite some time, have you considered a refresher course? You may be able to find information on them from your state BON. You may also find that many facilities in your area have begun requiring or preferring BSN nurses, so that's something else you may want to look into. As for management, I'd wager that's going to take an advanced degree, possibly a BSN position may exist, but many facilities are now requiring an MSN. I'd also be leery of working for a new manager who hasn't had on the job experience in quite some time- just my personal opinion. Case management isn't something I'm familiar with, but again, check into job requirements.

[hluscan]

I worked as an RN for 4 years and then stayed home with my kids for 6 yrs. I went to 1 day,a week when my youngest was 3. And then when he went to kindergarten went back full time. I did med surg and OB my first 4 yrs and med surg, same day surgery and ER when I came back ( perk of small hospital, also good nurse patient ratios) Anyone can go back to nursing after being out for a while, research what you're doing to ensure best practices.