Reskilling Internationally Educated Nurses

Abstract

In light of a projected shortage of registered nurses, nurses trained overseas may present a viable solution. However, these nurses will likely need to surmount many obstacles in order to integrate into the profession in the United States. This chapter reviews the barriers faced by internationally trained nurses to entering the nursing profession. Secondly, it argues for the importance of addressing and facilitating personal and professional transitions in helping deskilled nurses as they pursue nursing licensure. In doing so, it will reflect on the researcher's research with internationally educated nurses and their experiences in a National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) preparation program. Finally, implications for adult education practitioners who help internationally educated nurses, as well as other deprofessionalized immigrants rebuild their careers in the United States are discussed.