cardiac-orthopedic?

[Liz'02RN]

I am currently practicing as a cardiac nurse on a med surg floor. I have experience as a nurse extern on an orthopedic floor, but I went with recommendations to work with the heart right out of college. I have done that for 1 1/2 years now and find myself wanting to go back to the orthopedic side of things. I never particularly liked to work solely with the heart. The critical drips, and arrythmias! I just wanted to know if anyone has an advice about the comparison of the two fields. I feel as if I am stuck between a rock and a hard place, the rock being comfortable with where I am, and hard place being afraid of it so much.

[soontoretire]

I have been an orthopaedic nurse for 30+ years and find that many of our ortho patients are elderly and have a multitude of medical problems frequently including cardiac problems. Ortho nursing would probably be a welcome change and you could still feel comfortable and have a lot to offer on the ortho unit. Best wishes with your decision.

[susanmary]

Originally posted by Liz'02RN

I have done that for 1 1/2 years now and find myself wanting to go back to the orthopedic side of things... I never particularly liked to work solely with the heart... I feel as if I am stuck between a rock and a hard place, the rock being comfortable with where I am, and hard place being afraid of it so much.

You answered your own question. Follow your heart and do what you love. The 1 1/2 years of cardiac experience truly enhance your professional practice ... you've been there/done that ... now make a new path for yourself. Good luck!