[rachelgp]

Hi to all! I'm kinda new to allnurses, but I was hoping for some advice. I am a new grad (9 months) and have been working in an ER since graduating. I love certain aspects of it, but it's not really me. Don't know if it's the ER I'm at or ER in general. I'm still trying to find my "niche" in nursing. Anyway, I'm mulling over the idea of OR or PACU, preferably OR. I have no experience in OR--what are some things I can do to make myself more qualified, and a more attractive applicant? Thanks in advance for the help!

[EastCoastOR]

Make sure you find a place with at least 6-9 months orientation that hopefully will include classroom (the aorn book and Alexander's Care of the Patient in Surgery) and hands on. Nine months in the ER is great to have but the OR is a different world altogether. It takes at least 2 years to feel competent in this area of nursing. Have a portable notebook to write all the information down and be patient.
I went to the OR as a new grad 2 years ago, and it was tough. It has gotten a bit easier. I am still learning everyday. But IMHO, the OR is very exciting. If I can make it this far, trust me, you can too.
Good luck!

[rachelgp]

Great ideas! I'll definitely look for those books. Anybody else have any suggestions......?