Join the OR or go into another specialty?

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I have the opportunity to go to the OR or to the ER at a pediatric hospital. I have no hospital experience as an RN but do have pediatric experience. I feel I could excel at both specialties with time but I’m scared to make the wrong choice. If I go into one, I may not be able to transfer later to the other if I change my mind because they are so incredibly different and the skills don’t really line up. I know this forum may be biased because it’s your specialty but I want advice from those in one of the two fields.

About me: I have a strong personality but am always told I’m very sweet. I’m very A.D.D. and super committed to my work.

Help! I must decide very soon. What should I do?

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Shimmer580, Kudos to you for having two great opportunities! Does one specialty seem more interesting to you?

I would see if I could spend a day shadowing in the ER and a day in the OR. It might help you to decide.

Either specialty would be a good choice and you would develop specific skills related to the specialty. I think the skills in either specialty would be valuable if you ever wanted to transfer to a different department.

What are the orientations and culture of the ER and OR you are considering? I would take that into consideration, too.

Good luck! Let us know what you decide!

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My first job was SICU, then the ER, then I got smart and went into the OR. Better schedule! I don't think you can go wrong with either choice.

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