Why OR?

[NiteRocker]

How is OR different from other specialties? What do you enjoy? Was it hard to learn?

[mcmike55]

How is the OR different from other specialties? Tough question, guess I never gave it much thought.

OR is different from ED for example, because we are in a little more controlled environment. In other words, we pretty much know what is coming thru the door next. Not to say things don't "fall of the tracks". A perfectly stable pt can get into trouble in a big hurry. I guess this control, covers several areas.

I like the OR because we are 1:1 with our pt's. Also, I like being hands on, and doing the positioning, setting up equipment, inserting lines, etc.

As far as hard to learn? Heck, after 25+ years, I'm still learning!!

But as far as learning enough to be on my own, etc, it takes a while.

I would go so far as saying that depending on your background, orientation in the OR might be one of the longest.

Taking OR call is another story.

Not too many specialties take call.

Just a few random thoughts, hope that helps.

Mike