Well, it's official. I no longer have a job and therefore, I am no longer a practicing nurse. My legs were both just cut off at the knees. I've been doing consulting work consistently for the past 2 years for the same organization, who informed me that my contract is over and thanked me for my service. I looked back at the original training and contract; I neglected to see that it was 2 years. At the time, about 15 Advanced practice nurses underwent training for the consulting role and we all just got our letters thanking us for our service. Problem is, most of them are working. It was all I had.
I did just renew my specialty certification as a clinical nurse specialist and nurse practitioner; I worked really hard to ensure I'd meet the criteria to renew. So, I'll have those credentials for another 5 years and many would think it was stupid (because the cost was $350), it was a matter of pride for me. But I know it will be the last time; I won't have the required practice hours going forward.
Am I still a nurse? Sure. But am I really a nurse? Not any more. Another loss: check.
