A question for all you OR pros out there

[catmom1, BSN, RN]

I am planning on returning to nursing after a five year absence and am applying for an OR position. I love the idea that I would be continually learning new things there throughout my career.

My previous experience was in Med/Surg but I would prefer the OR. I have been reading many threads here on OR nursing and I am humbled by how long it will take before I really know what I am doing. (I am gathering it is at least a couple of years, with a very steep learning curve.)

The purpose of my post is this: In one thread I saw a post by the very experienced Shodobe that said something to the effect that it is hard to get nurses who are really interested in learning and staying in OR nursing.

Is there a reason for this, do you think? I know it's a demanding specialty but I am excited as can be & hope I will be allowed to accept a training position.

Any feedback would be appreciated.

Thanks!

Catmom

[Marie_LPN, RN, LPN, RN]

Is there a reason for this, do you think?

Honestly, the fast-paced environment is too much for some people, that's one reason.

Also, there are some people that talk about the importance of the teamwork invironment (within the dept. and with other depts.), yet demonstrate the total opposite, creating a less-than-desirable experience. These are typically the same people that complain how hard it is to retain OR nurses, in my (2 year) experience. I've lucked out in the fact that this is a rare problem where i work.

Plus, some places are wanting a committment (2 years usually)when someone is hired. Depending on one's personal life, that can be a lot of time to ask for.

[catmom1, BSN, RN]

Wow Marie! Thanks for the fast reply. Your knowledge is very much appreciated.

Catmom

[Marie_LPN, RN, LPN, RN]

You're welcome :)

Make a list of questions to ask about things like call time, weekends, hours, training length and content, etc. This way you can ask this during an interview and get a better idea of what it consists of.

[catmom1, BSN, RN]

Thanks again Marie. I have a list of questions that I have gathered from this site. Hopefully, I will impress the interviewer that I am willing to go that extra mile to learn what I need to to be a good OR nurse.

Catmom