how do i get into the or as a tech before i start nu school

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Specializes in Psych, Hospice, Surgical unit, L&D/Postpartum.

Hi, I am starting nu school next year and I have worked as a tech in other areas but I really want to get into the or. What is the best way to go about getting in? Should I wait until I do my or rotations in school, or maybe contact my local hospital. I just want the experience now so I can maybe get in the or easier as a rn. I eventually want to become a crna as my long term goal. Any tips or advice would be appreciated. Also, anything to watch out for while in the or? Do u think they would consider a prenursing student to be allowed to shadow a tech or rn for a day? Sorry lots of ?s but I am really interested in this field. Thanks.....

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Specializes in Operating Room.

There are student nurse positions in some places..but you have to be a nursing student already. To be a surgical tech, you need training and in most places a degree or diploma. Back in the day, they used to have on the job training but most places don't do this anymore. Surgical tech is a career in its own right and it can be a very difficult job. You have to know anatomy, physiology, microbiology and have a good working knowledge of surgical procedures. In many places, you must be certified as well.

You could do something like an orderly just to get them to know your face...Duties would be transport of patients, specimens, running for blood.

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Specializes in Psych, Hospice, Surgical unit, L&D/Postpartum.

Thanks for your reply and suggestions..... :)

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Specializes in OR Hearts 10.

I agree that orderly is probably your best bet, BUT if your longterm goal is CRNA, SICU is were you need to work.

Good luck

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Specializes in 2 years school nurse, 15 in the OR!.

Hmmmm...R u talking about a surgical tech, or like techs that act as orderlies? We have a "OR Tech 2" title...That is pulling cases, getting patients, running specimens to the lab, helping hold extremities, etc. You might be able to get a job such as that. In fact, one of our "OR tech 2's" was a nursing student. If you are talking about a surgical tech, I would say forget that. That is a complete different education program, lots of them have associate degrees. It also takes a while for you to become "proficient" in scrubbing even after you have finished your program.

I do agree with the above post though, if you have your sites set on a CRNA you need to work in a real SICU. Good luck.

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Specializes in Psych, Hospice, Surgical unit, L&D/Postpartum.

Thanks for the replies. I was talking bout an or tech or o.r.a. I just want the experience if I can find it. I know the surgi tech profram is completely different. I keep looking around at the hospitals in my area but I have no luck right now. Thanks for the help though...

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Specializes in Operating Room.
Thanks for the replies. I was talking bout an or tech or o.r.a. I just want the experience if I can find it. I know the surgi tech profram is completely different. I keep looking around at the hospitals in my area but I have no luck right now. Thanks for the help though...

Ok, I got confused because around here, we call surgical technologists either surgical tech, scrub techs or OR techs. Once you start your nursing program, start looking for student nurse extern positions..many will teach you to scrub as part of the process and you can get a foot in the door. Good Luck!!:up:

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