New nurse to OR, need guidance

Specialties Operating Room

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Hello all! I am new to the OR and a new nurse. I was very excited to get this job and am still very happy to be there but lately i have been getting down on myself.

I have been there for almost a month now, and am transitioning into the rooms. I really like it and am looking forward to the day when I actually know where all the supplies are and what is needed for the procedures ( such as stryker machine for laparascopic procedures, etc.) It is my third day of transition and I felt really good about it. I left feeling accomplished and that i had improved since the day before until I saw my evaluation. Evaluation sheets consist of 20-25 questions that they can answer yes/no pertaining to what we did that day. Although I feel like im doing a lot and I am improving, my sheets consist of so many "no's" its hard for me not to be discouraged. I am starting to wonder if this is a normal feeling or if im really missing the mark on what I should be doing. Any advice/comments would be appreciated.

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Specializes in Operating room..

OR orientation is the longest of any specialty for a reason. I didn't stop feeling like I wanted to throw up every day until about 7 months in. Please, do not feel this way. Many in the OR become a little jaded, hardened, and forget what it feels like to be new. I took notes for everything! Carried my book (3x5 cards) everywhere everyday. Little things from positioning, reps names, to the Drs favorite radio station....I studied them before every case. It takes 6 months to a year in the OR before you feel like you aren't an idiot every day...but it is worth it. I love the OR...found myself there (lost myself too)...but found myself again. Hang in there...and good luck!

MereSanity BSN, RN, CNOR

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Thank you :) That is good advice about the note cards I definitely have to get some. Ive just been so focused on being present for every situation that I forgot notes would really help. I really do love the OR and know it will be worth it, I just cant wait until it becomes second nature and Im not running around like a chicken with its head cut off (especially in the supply room, ugh). Thanks for your response :)

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Specializes in Operating room..

Think 12 steps ahead too. Always be ready, prepared...just stand there and think....what will he need after this? What will he need for closing? Or for dressings? What if (this happens)? What should I do...play out those scenarios in your head while you are in a room (or at home). They say OR nurses are nothing but "gophers"...then why is the orientation so long? Come float to the OR for a day, see how ya do. A good 1st circulator is amazing. The Drs really notice and they will trust you. My Drs will ask me for something and I already have it in the room ready for them, they just shake their head at me. You'll get there. It's worth it.

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I'm in the same situation, new, loving it, but also lost, confused, up and down! I can't wait for the day I and my colleagues consider me competent , but I think we have a steep learning curve ahead... So much equipment and info, just keep going and develop a thick skin and a curious mind I think... And check this post back every few months to compare how you feel then with now ...

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