Is anyone a nurse or student? Help! Advice needed.

[Firsttimemumxxx]

Hello, not sure if this is the right place but I’m really just looking for some advice/ personal experiences with this type of situation. Does anyone know the maximum time you can leave between finishing a nursing degree and starting work? Without having to take any further courses etc. Basically I’m a 3rd year student nurse and have just found out I’m pregnant- worked out I’ll be due October ish. Obviously I won’t be able to start work as soon as I finish! My only worry is that in 18 months ish or so’s time when I’m ready to start work will I have left it too late? It will be more than 6 months after finishing so I know it can be difficult! Does anyone have any knowledge on this? I’m really worried that I’m making a silly mistake that will affect my career. Thanks cx

Don’t panic.
It’s 450 hours over 3 years from when you get your pin. Revalidation is done every 3 years.

revalidation.nmc.org.uk/welcome-to-revalidation.1.html

450 hours being 38 12 hour shifts. So even if you only did 2 a week that would be 19 weeks so less than half a year to time qualify

Don't panic, it will absolutely fine. One of my friends from my nursing course went travelling for 9 months between qualifying and starting her first job. We all had interviews and got job offers about 9 months before we qualified, the start dates were fairly flexible. So I wouldn't put it off you applying for jobs before your mat leave.

There is a massive shortage of nurses atm, you will be able to get a job. I also wouldn't worry about there being a gap between you qualifying and starting a job; getting your pin is a bit like getting a driving licence, you don't properly learn how to do it until you've passed your test.

Also, not wanting to worry you, but atm you can't be patient facing after 28 weeks, if that policy stays the same then would you need a bit of time off before your final placements? Again, don't panic if that's the case. One of my colleagues got pregnant during her nursing course; she had a year off and then came back for her last few placements and qualified with no problems, and walked into a job. Have you talked to your tutor at uni or anyone yet?