[YanRN]

Hello. I am leaving the ER and starting a new job in Special Procedures. I am very excited. I have spent some time in the department visiting but am wondering what to expect on a daily basis. I have had folks tell me I'll be bored (I don't think so). Any thoughts are appreciated. (The department consists of 3 RNs and 3 RTs. There will be a minimum of 3 of us on each case. Only one room.)

[DutchgirlRN]

Truly, many times I've been bored. It comes and goes. Some days are very busy, some are very slow. I have had to come up with time worthy things to do when times are slow. I was told I could bring books to read but I write, study, clean, organize, etc...When I get totally bored I go help in Nuc Med or the Pain Clinic and that's only if they need me but many such times they are also doing nothing.

I used to tell my manager I don't feel like I'm earning my money. I've been told repeatedly by my manager that its not a problem when were not doing anything. Learning the prices of the tests I'm beginning to understand why. They are definately making plenty of money. CTA $8,000.

[dianah]

Long ago I remarked to our Chief Radiologist that I felt guilty "sitting" between cases or injections . . (I do find things to do, but still . . .)
He replied, "As long as you're here when we need you, that's the important thing."

Our IR is HOPPING!!
I work in Cath Lab (totally separate) but I visit there occasionally, to borrow a catheter or ask advice on a technicality. They're ALWAYS busy!! They have only two rooms and 5-6 staff (plus a Radiology Fellow, I believe).
At first, when learning the ropes, you certainly won't be bored.
You'll figure it out (procedures, time management, catch-up projects for down times, etc).