Haven't worked at the bed-side in over a year, and only have 2 years direct-patient care. Concerned about losing "skills" and going back to the bed-side. How can I refresh or prepare? Thank you.

Any new job will have a nursing orientation. You will review everything and some hospitals may pair you with a preceptor.

Also, don't burn your bedside bridges.

I would keep a per diem bedside job on the side if you could swing it. That's what I'm doing. I left bedside after almost 9 years and went into CM. I enjoy CM but there are times when I miss direct patient care... but not enough to go back full time and deal w/ the politics that come w/ working the ER/hospital environment. I just pick up whenever I can or get the hankering for an adrenaline rush. I suggest you keep up w/ your certifications for sure.

If you enjoy hands on care with patients but don’t necessarily want to be in the hospital environment , seek opportunities at outpatient surgery centers, urgent care centers, free standing ERs . There is an outpatient complex care unit in some hospitals . Within these units will for sure maintain all your skills. These patients are discharged from the hospital and can’t care for themselves at home . Some have insurance and some don’t. They come in IV infusions , PICC and midline dressing changes, blood transfusions, dressing changes , etc. If you’re not looking for full time in these areas , perhaps you can do PRN to maintain your skills . Hope this helps .

Thank you for the suggestions, I did not even consider outpatient services.