From OR to...

To be honest, I know of very few people who, once they were in the OR, wanted to go back to the floor. I know of one nurse who wanted to try ER and she got hired down there. I myself toyed with an offer I had to cross train in the ICU. Not because I hate the OR(I love it actually)but because someday I might consider CRNA school. I decided to stay put in the OR. I don't think it's hard to switch at all-most places are willing to retrain or cross train.

I've actually heard the same thing: Once you go OR you never go back.

The only person I have ever heard of leaving was a girl who went back to ICU. She loved it there and could never get enough. Other than that; it seems to be the other way around. It seems like once they come to the OR they never go back.

I've worked in the OR for about 10 years - 8 years as an LVN/Scrub, then 2 years as an RN/Circulator. I love the OR, but was feeling restless and in need of a change. I left the hospital OR for an outpatient OR job to escape the call (I HATED being on call). I still felt the need for more of change, and 2 months ago I took a job back at the hospital in an outpatient cancer center. I administer chemotherapy (I had to take a class, of course), work 10 hour shifts, no nights, no weekends or holidays and no call. The heaviest thing I carry is an IV bag. In the OR, there were days I felt beat up by the end of the day from carrying and moving heavy equipment, etc.. It was a very difficult transition for me, but I'm glad I stuck it out because I love it now. Some days I miss the OR very much and wonder if I've made the right choice. Most days I'm really happy with the decision - I love the patients and was lucky to find a very supportive group of people to work with.