RN Refresher (Independent Study)

This course will update and enhance the nursing knowledge and clinical skills of registered nurses seeking to transition from a non-acute care environment (long-term care, school nursing, occupational health, home care, etc.) and seek employment at an acute care facility. The course is also designed for nurses who have been out of the nursing workforce who would like to review necessary information in order to return to work as an RN. Content will afford the non-working RN up-to-date information on health problems, new technology, and the current role expectation of the registered professional nurse.

The course will provide a review of fundamental competencies for medical-surgical nursing in the currently increasingly complex healthcare practice settings. Participants will experience hands-on clinical care and will be considered for RN employment at the completion of the course.

At the course completion, nurses will be able to:

  • Identify current nursing trends and their relationship to nursing practice.
  • Integrate the nursing process as a framework for the provision of patient care.
  • Demonstrate safe, effective care consistent with current standards of practice.
  • Utilize effective communication skills with patients, families, and staff.
  • Demonstrate cultural competence in the provision of patient care.
  • Recognize legal issues related to professional nursing practice.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of pharmacological principles and sound nursing judgment through the safe administration of medications.
  • Perform a complete health assessment.
  • Utilize wellness assessment as a component of care planning.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of commonly used laboratory tests as part of the assessment process.

Course Schedule
Sigma Theta Tau

Return to Nursing

  • Online independent study
54.2 contact hours
SUNY CCC HEC

Simulation lab

  • Hands-on equipment
  • Clinical skills checklist
16 hours
SUNY CCC Clinical Hours 120 hours in an acute care facility 120 hours; scheduled as 4, 8 & 12 hour shifts

Requirements for Entry

  • NCLEX-RN – Participants must have taken and passed the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) for practice in the United States.
  • U.S. licensed RN – Participant must possess an active unencumbered U.S. licensed registered nurse (RN). A copy of the current NY or PA RN license must be provided at the time of enrollment.
  • U.S. hospital experience – Participants must have a minimum of two (2) years previous practice as a registered nurse (RN) in a U.S. hospital or U.S. acute care setting.
    • Participants will be asked to provide the name and contact information for their latest hospital or acute care employer.
  • Health insurance – Proof of current health insurance is required and must be maintained for the duration of the course.
  • Current CPR certification – American Heart Association BLS for Healthcare Provider
  • Current PPD, immunization, PA Child Abuse and Criminal Background clearances – Use ImmuniTrax to verify compliance with all health and clearance requirements.


A “flu vaccine” is required during “flu season” October through April.

Documentation of receiving the vaccine is required with the health form.

A negative COVID test is required 7-10 days before onsite clinical training can begin.

Price: $3,350 (Includes online, simulation, and clinical. Does NOT include uniforms)

Register Here


Looking for funding options? Click here to view non-credit funding options!

Email ilearn@corning-cc.edu or call 607-936-5501 for more information on upcoming dates or opportunities for your corporate training needs!

Businesses in Chemung, Schuyler and Steuben interested in seeking funding to send promising leaders from their organizations to this training should contact CSS Workforce NY at 607-937-8337.

SUNY Corning Community College is committed to ensuring equal access to students with disabilities. If you believe that you will need accommodations while taking this course, please contact Accessibility Services by phone 607-962-9262 or email Accessibility@corning-cc.edu to begin the process of requesting accommodations. We strive to coordinate accommodations in a timely manner, but some accommodations may not be available when you need them if you do not give timely notice.