Returning to nursing after being inactive

Does anyone have advice about how to get back into nursing after years of being inactive? I have been applying online and it's turned out to be an exercise in frustration. Weeks can go by without even a response.
Also, how many inactive nurses out there have returned to nursing without having to take a refresher course? The Dept. of Regulation and Licensing says that it is not required but the Human Resources dept. at one hospital told me I would need to take one.

Thanks for any info!

If you hae indeed been inactive for many years; I would strongly encourage you to go take a refresher course on your own to see if you are ready (and willing) to return to nursing today.

Nursing has changed dramatically over the past 5-10 years; just the way things are done electronically alone will be confusing to you. From charting to medication delivery systems, to how things are ordered and even delivered right now have all been affected by computerization.

Taking a refresher course will prepare you for some of these changes; it will also show prospective employers that you are serious about returning to nursing; and it could also make you aware why you left the nursing field in the first place.

I wish you luck and encouragement in returning to nursing! :)