From Oncology to OR

[Shan, RN]

Hello! I'm a new grad currently working on an inpatient oncology unit. I've been a nurse since June 2022. I have known for a long time that bedside nursing isn't for me, but I worked on this unit as a PCT while finishing school and decided to do a 15-month residency here because I work with the most amazing nurses and wanted to learn from them. It's been a great experience so far, but I'm trying to pinpoint which direction to go in when my contract is up in December 2023. I love procedural settings; I shadowed in a cath lab during school and thought it was the neatest thing. I've also shadowed in the OR of a plastic surgery clinic. I'd love to work somewhere like an outpatient surgery center, but I would also consider a position at a hospital depending on the hours. The ultimate dream would be to work in a setting that focuses on oncologic surgery. Do I have a chance of getting hired in any OR setting without OR experience? I'm in the DFW area in Texas, if that helps; any advice is much appreciated ?

[flower808s, RN]

I would look into what is called RN Fellowship programs first! This is similar to residency programs but fellowships are for those who have experience as an RN. You would get more support this way. Programs like this are usually inpatient hospital based however. It is possible to get a job without OR experience though, but I imagine it would be challenging. 

[Shan, RN]

flower808s said:

I would look into what is called RN Fellowship programs first! This is similar to residency programs but fellowships are for those who have experience as an RN. You would get more support this way. Programs like this are usually inpatient hospital based however. It is possible to get a job without OR experience though, but I imagine it would be challenging. 

That's a great idea!! I think my hospital would very likely have something like that, I'm going to look into it! Thanks so much ?