We know that nursing is a demanding and rewarding profession, but life circumstances like raising a family, pursuing other opportunities, or experiencing burnout may lead some nurses to take a career break. Whether your break was a few months or several years, returning to the healthcare workforce can feel daunting. However, with careful planning and the right strategies, you can smoothly transition back into the nursing field. Here, we’ve compiled 10 helpful strategies to help you return to nursing after a career break.
Assess Your Readiness
Before diving back into nursing, it’s important to assess your readiness—both physically and mentally. Nursing is a demanding profession that requires resilience, focus, and physical stamina. Reflect on the reasons you took a break and ensure that you are fully prepared to re-enter a fast-paced, high-stakes environment. Take time to mentally prepare for long shifts, patient care responsibilities, and the emotional challenges that often accompany the job.
Tip: If you’re unsure, try shadowing a nurse for a few days or consider part-time work first to ease back into the role.
Update Your Nursing License and Certifications
A valid nursing license is required to practice and depending on how long you’ve been out of the profession, your license and certifications may have expired. Start by checking the status of your nursing license with your state’s Board of Nursing. Many states require continuing education units (CEUs) or refresher courses for reactivation. You’ll also want to renew any specialty certifications or take new exams to stay current.
Tip: Check the specific requirements in your state and start early on any needed coursework.
Enroll in a Nursing Refresher Course
If you’ve been away from nursing for a significant period, a refresher course can help you regain your confidence and knowledge. These courses are specifically designed for nurses returning to the profession and typically cover essential skills such as the nursing process, nursing assessment, legal-ethical issues, common IV and drug therapy, medical surgical conditions encountered in contemporary practice, and updated healthcare protocols. Some programs even offer clinical components where you can practice hands-on skills in a supervised environment.
Tip: Many refresher courses are available online, allowing you to complete the coursework at your own pace.
Brush Up on Technology
Healthcare technology is constantly evolving, and if you’ve been out of the nursing field for a while, the technology may have changed significantly. Electronic health records (EHRs), telehealth platforms, and other digital tools are increasingly used in patient care. Familiarize yourself with the latest systems and tools by taking courses, watching online tutorials, or asking for hands-on training in your new job.
Tip: Many hospitals and healthcare providers offer EHR training for nurses during onboarding, but having a basic understanding beforehand can be beneficial.
Network with Other Nurses
Networking is crucial when returning to nursing after a career break. Reach out to former colleagues, join local or online nursing groups, and attend nursing conferences or workshops. These networks can provide support, mentorship, and even job opportunities. Building relationships with other professionals can help you learn about the latest trends in nursing and gain insight into what employers are looking for in candidates returning from a break.
Tip: LinkedIn is a great platform for professional networking and joining nursing-specific groups.
Update Your Resume and Portfolio
Your resume and portfolio are your first opportunities to make an impression with potential employers. Tailor your resume to highlight not only your nursing skills and experience but also any transferable skills you’ve gained during your career break. Whether it’s volunteer work, raising a family, or pursuing further education, these experiences can demonstrate your adaptability and work ethic.
Tip: Include any recent certifications, courses, or volunteer work to show that you have remained engaged with the healthcare field.
Seek Volunteer or Internship Opportunities
If you’re unsure about diving straight into a paid position, volunteering or interning at a healthcare facility can be a great way to ease back into the nursing environment. Many hospitals, clinics, and community health centers offer volunteer opportunities that allow you to refresh your skills while contributing to patient care. Internships, particularly in specialized fields, can also offer hands-on experience without the full responsibility of a staff position. These roles provide the added benefit of networking with healthcare professionals and may even lead to job offers down the line.
Tip: Volunteer for roles in settings that match your long-term career interests, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or public health.
Start with Temporary or Part-Time Work
Jumping back into full-time nursing might feel overwhelming after a long break. To ease the transition, consider starting with temporary or part-time work. Many healthcare organizations offer per diem or temporary nursing positions, which can help you reacquaint yourself with the demands of the job while maintaining flexibility. These roles can also help you build up your experience and confidence before committing to a full-time position.
Tip: Temp positions are a great way to explore different nursing specialties before settling into a permanent role.
Prioritize Self-Care
Nursing is known for its long hours and emotional demands, and these challenges can be even more intense when you’re returning after a break. Prioritize self-care to maintain your mental and physical well-being. Make time for relaxation, exercise, and hobbies outside of work to recharge. Burnout is a common issue in nursing, so developing strong self-care habits early on can help you manage stress and maintain balance.
Tip: Contemplate practicing mindfulness or yoga to reduce stress and enhance focus on the job.
Stay Up to Date on Nursing Trends and Best Practices
Ever-evolving is the healthcare field, and staying abreast on the latest nursing trends and best practices will make you a stronger candidate. Read nursing journals, subscribe to relevant newsletters, and follow professional organizations such as the American Nurses Association (ANA) to stay current on emerging trends, research, and policies. Continuing education can also enhance your skills and make you more competitive in the job market.
Tip: Commit to regular professional development even after securing a position, this will keep your skills sharp and improve patient care.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Returning to nursing after a career break can be both exciting and challenging, but with the right strategies, you can successfully re-enter the profession and continue making a difference in patients’ lives. By assessing your readiness, updating your skills, and building a strong support network, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the job market and find a fulfilling role in healthcare once again.
Each step you take is a way to rebuild your confidence, enhance your knowledge, and ensure that you’re prepared for the unique demands of nursing today. Take it one step at a time, and before you know it, you’ll be back in scrubs, ready to provide compassionate care.
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