In the middle of OR orientation:still confused

zahryia, LPN · Jun 1, 2008

I think it's the newness that's bothering you the most. As great as it is for us nurses to continually change careers, the 'starting over' period is not always an exciting experience.

I would keep with it. If you enjoy autonomy, I would think this would be a good fit.

elkpark · Jun 1, 2008

I think that the key words in your post are, "I miss knowing what I'm doing and I miss not feeling stupid ..." It's just human nature to prefer familiarity and feeling competent and, as zahryia noted, the transition period into a new job or specialty is often difficult and frustrating. Why not stick with it for a while longer, and make a decision about whether OR is "for you" after you've started to feel some sense of familiarity and confidence?

SandraCVRN · Jun 1, 2008

It's way to early to say this is not for you. It takes a good six months just to get your feet wet. I've been at my facility for 2 years now and still am unsure in neuro and ortho. What kind of orientation are you getting? That can make all the difference.

There is an "Operating Room" board under the specialty tab, you may find more ideas there.

I've worked the floor so I know how you feel, but believe me you will learn how to use your skills in the OR, and when you figure out that you are using your critical thinking skills being a pt advocate for someone that cannot speak for theyselves. You will oneday catch something that no one else did, that day you will realize you are usig your nursing skills.

Good luck and see you on the other board.

mom2michael, MSN, RN, NP · Jun 1, 2008

I'm gonna have to agree. I think you miss the knowing how to do your job and not *feeling stupid* more than anything. Give this job a chance and give yourself an opportunity to grow. I really think if you give yourself at least a year to really get comfortable you are going to find you love it.

RNperdiem, RN · Jun 1, 2008

Even when you do feel like you know what you are doing, some days you just get whipped. Nursing is humbling.

BSNin2008 · Jun 1, 2008

Also, you might want to talk to your nurse manager, educator, or preceptor. They might have some good advice on how to make the transition easier. And, by keeping them in the loop, if you finally do decide it isn't for you they won't be entirely surprised.

I am starting an OR program as a new grad very soon and I wish you the best!

nurseinlimbo · Jun 1, 2008

What specifically about the OR is it that you don't like? Is it the procedures, the lack of patient contact, the stress level, the staff?

I did an OR course that included preceptorship and lead to a PT job, but didn't stay because while I loved the hands on, the staff were so demanding of perfection and so belittling that I didn't feel I could ever feel comfortable there. The floor had staffing issues, still does, but I hear that ORs are notorious for their TypeA personalities and how poorly they treat new staff, so I don't know if I would like it better anywhere else.

Give it time, listen and learn, don't put too much pressure on yourself. I think the area can be good, if the staff will accept you and you can handle the pressure.

Itshamrtym · Jun 1, 2008

Hello

YOU are out of your comfort zone. And, well that can be un-comfortable. 4 weeks isn't a lot of time to decide if you are going to like it or not. YOU will get it... it just will take time. I have been a OR nurse for 2.5 years. I specialize (I like he he) general, but I have to do GYN too. I can remember thinking, when I'm on my own I'm never going to be able to do all of this.... It is a lot to do for the circulator. But, with time you will become great at it. If you are sure this isn't what you want, then I wouldn't stay. The orientation is usally about 6 months. That is a long time and a great investment for the hospital. Listen to your heart and you will make the right decision. Good luck to you.

Virgo_RN, BSN, RN · Jun 1, 2008

I am a strong believer in getting out of one's comfort zone. I'm a person that enjoys a challenge, and when things get too comfortable, I'm ready to take on something new. Part of this process involves feeling stupid at first. The key, at least for me, is to realize that feeling stupid is a natural and essential part of the growth process, and to embrace it. Do not shrink from it. Don't take yourself too seriously, and if others take you too seriously, remind them that you are learning.

I enjoy the growth process, from the beginning, where I feel totally out of my comfort zone and stupid, throughout the learning, to the point of mastery. When I feel I have reached mastery, I like to move on to something new and start the process all over again.

I'm fortunate that I found nursing, as it will be quite some time before I am comfortable in my current position. I still feel stupid on a regular basis, and I've been in my current position for ten months. This means I won't need to take on any new challenges for a while since I'm too busy learning the ropes now. I anticipate that at some point, I will be ready to do so, and will feel stupid in my next role. It's all part of the process.

dexter99 · Jun 1, 2008

Thanks! Your thoughts are very helpful! I'm going to give it a shot and talk to my nurse educator...

Itshamrtym · Jun 1, 2008

Good for YOU!!!! Let me (us) know if we can assist you any further.

YOU can PM or email me if you wish.... Good luck... keep us posted.