American UK nursing student needs advice on US career progression

[UKCALIGIRL]

Hi all,

I am an American living in the UK and am currently in my final year at University pursuing my Adult Nursing degree. I hope to one day return to the US to be nearer to my family and friends and completely understand the challenges that face me in becoming licensed RN in the US. I know that I will most likely need to take additional courses in order to qualify to sit the NCLEX exam, but whilst I am doing this I plan to work in the UK as a nurse to gain some experience and save some money. :0)

I found that I love surgery and wish to pursue this career path upon graduation, but am wondering if that is the smartest move if I want to eventually relocate to the States. Can anyone tell me what the States are looking for experience wise for nurses in general and nurses who would like to become OR nurses? Should I start working in a ward environment to enhance my general nursing skills and then proceed into surgery or should I go directly into surgery? Of course I would really like to go directly into surgery but want to make sure I am making a sensibile decision career wise for the future.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!!!!

[Ginger's Mom, MSN, RN]

OR nursing is a great field and is usually in demand. You will need to complete pedi, ob, and psych to be a US nurse and sit for the NCLEX. Getting experience in the UK will give you an edge, but you will still be considered a new nurse even with experience.

I would also get your BSN in the UK. My understanding is the BSN is three years in the UK it is a 4 year program in the USA.

Good Luck.

[Silverdragon102, BSN]

Ginger's mom....... Nurse training is 3 years but it is full time with no big breaks like summer break etc, they do get some holidays but not big breaks

[UKCALIGIRL]

Thanks so much Gingers Mom. I knew about the additional courses. Hopefully some of the pre-req. in psych. I took before I left the States will still apply but if not then I will do what I need to do. :)

I am obtaining my degree in nursing here as the training is becoming degree only prigram in 2013, it will give me an edge when interviewing here and it will look good on my resume when relocating to the States.

In your opinion would it be best to pursue surgery directly after graduation or start with general nursing on the ward first? I know what I want to do but want to be smart about my choices.

Thanks for your help!!