Wants L&D After 12 Year Gap

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Dear Nurse Beth,

I am an older RN with 20 years nursing experience. I have worked 17 of those years in hospital doing ER, L&D and Med Surg. I want L&D but its been 3 years since I've worked in hospital and 12 years since L&D. How do I get back to hospital nursing when it has been such a long time and L&D in particular when it's been even longer time since working in that specialty. Suggestions or tips appreciated.

Dear Wants L&D,

A 3 year gap is not insurmountable but it will take persistence. Look for a nursing refresher course in your area. Not only will this help with your skills, it will help with making contacts. Contacts can turn into job leads.

Activate your network and let everyone know you are looking for a position.

Consider broadening your goal. If you can't initially land an L&D position, how about MedSurg or ED? Depending on the market in your area, there may be more opportunities in MedSurg and ED than L&D. You have the experience and could negotiate for a slightly longer orientation if needed.

Good luck and keep us posted!

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

Author, "Your Last Nursing Class: How to Land Your First Nursing Job"...and your next!