Returning to nursing after years away can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you’ve stepped away for family, health, or a career change, many nurses share the same concerns when starting again. In this post, we’ll explore the top 5 challenges for nurses returning to practice—and practical strategies to overcome them so you can confidently rejoin the workforce.
1. Rebuilding Clinical Confidence
- Time away from the bedside can make you question your skills.
- Solution: A refresher course with supervised clinical hours helps restore hands-on confidence.
2. Catching Up With New Technology
- Electronic health records (EHR), simulation tools, and updated equipment may feel foreign.
- Solution: Programs now include technology modules to ease the transition.
3. Meeting Board of Nursing Requirements
- Every state has its own requirements for reactivation. In Florida, this includes completing a Board-approved refresher with 96 clinical hours.
- Solution: Enroll in a BON-approved course to ensure compliance.
4. Balancing Life, Work, and Study
- Returning nurses are often managing families, jobs, or other commitments.
- Solution: Choose a flexible, self-paced refresher program with online coursework.
5. Managing Emotional Stress & Self-Doubt
- Many nurses feel nervous about being “out of touch” or compare themselves to younger peers.
- Solution: Focus on positivity, self-care, and mentorship, remembering that experience is a strength.
FAQ Section
Q: Do I need a refresher course to return to nursing?
A: Yes—Florida BON requires a refresher course with clinicals if your license has been inactive for 5+ years.
Q: How long does it take to re-enter practice?
A: Most nurses complete refresher requirements in 4–6 weeks, depending on clinical scheduling.
Q: What if I feel nervous about returning to practice?
A: You’re not alone—structured refresher programs and supportive instructors are designed to ease this transition.
