Taking a break from nursing—whether for family, career changes, or personal reasons—doesn’t have to mean the end of your practice. But after years away, clinical skills may feel rusty. The good news? With the right plan, you can update your nursing skills after a break and step back into patient care with confidence. In this post, we’ll explore the best ways to refresh your skills, meet Florida BON requirements, and return to practice successfully.
1. Why Clinical Skills Get Rusty Over Time
- Nursing is constantly evolving—new technology, treatments, and protocols emerge every year.
- Even experienced nurses can lose confidence in hands-on skills after years away.
2. Florida BON Requirements for Reactivation
- Nurses with inactive licenses (5+ years) must complete a Board-approved refresher program.
- Programs include both online coursework and supervised clinical hours.
3. The Role of Simulation in Skill Building
- Online and lab-based simulations help nurses practice in a safe environment.
- Critical areas: medication administration, infection control, prioritization, delegation.
4. Hands-On Clinical Experience Matters
- Refresher programs include community-based clinical placements.
- These hours rebuild comfort with real patients, charting, and team communication.
5. Confidence Through Guided Support
- Instructors provide feedback during simulations and clinical hours.
- Weekly touchpoints ensure you’re supported every step of the way.
FAQ Section
Q: Do I need a refresher if I’ve been out of nursing for 3 years?
A: Not always. In Florida, refresher courses are typically required after 5 years of inactivity.
Q: What skills are usually refreshed in these programs?
A: Medication safety, assessment skills, documentation, communication, and updated laws/rules.
Q: Can I complete clinical hours online?
A: Some hours may be simulation-based, but BON requires supervised, hands-on clinical practice as part of reactivation.
