Hi there,
I was wondering if anyone can give me any advice on moving to OR and working as an experienced RN? By the time I move I will have had 3 years experience working on a progressive care/stroke/tele unit. I'm a 30 year old male, ACLS certified, have my NIH stroke certifications, am an ADN, and will hopefully finish my PCCN by the time I move. I have heard mixed opinions on the OR nursing environment as of late. I've heard as long as you have experience you can find jobs. Others say it's very hard. My wife (she grew up in Oregon) and I are thinking about moving to the Sherwood/Tualatin area.
What does an experienced RN make in OR? My base pay right now is around $28/hr. I work nights so I get night shift differential on top of that. My nursing experience in CA has been great. I make good money, the patient staffing is great, co-workers/managers are awesome and even in this economy I can pick up extra shifts and make more money.
How are the staffing ratios in OR? I also heard some of the hospitals like Kaiser are unionized? I'm looking at Kaiser, OHSU, and the VA. Possibly, Salem hospital in OR. Any and all advice would be greatly appreciated.
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