[semisweetchick]

I am a new grad in a very enviable position. I have the opportunity to go directly into the OR, either via a teaching (university) hospital that offers AORN's Periop101 course (10 months) or a teaching (university) hospital that offers a 6-8 month graduate nurse residency program.

Assuming both programs offer a hospitable environment for new grads and knowledgable preceptors (and all other factors being equal), which one would you choose? Why?

Thank you for taking time to give me your opinions!

[semisweetchick]

Despite the fact I'm logged in, the "edit" icon does not appear on my original post. This has happened to me before. Sorry for the additional post.

I just wanted to clarify. The program at Hospital A is the Periop101 program (6 months of AORN's program plus 4 months of additional preceptorship) vs. 6-8 months of preceptorship/residency at Hospital B.

Thanks!

[NiteRocker]

Great for you! I'm in the Periop 101 course now. Loving it! Another RN, took the course at another hopsital and now here, said she had a great experience too. I'm half way through and feel like I'm starting to put it all together. I'm ready!
Good luck.

[buck70]

If Hospital A is concerned enough about providing an effective orientation program as to offer AORN'S periop course, I would go with that. I would trust a facility that followed AORN'S standards over any other. Plus, a 10 month orientation will more adequately prepare a novice OR nurse. Good luck.

[semisweetchick]

Thanks for your replies. As it turned out, I did opt to go with "Hospital A," which offers Periop101. I'll be starting June 2, and can't wait! I know the OR is the place for me.

NiteRocker, I'm glad to hear your positive comments about Periop101. That's very reassuring!