too nice/quiet for the OR?

[QHnurse07]

Hi all, I'm new to allnurses! I just graduated 12/07 and I started right off in the OR. I had a 9 month periop course and have been on my own now since September. I work in basically all services except for CT. My issue is I feel like I'm too quiet and/or nice to work in the OR. I'm not pushy, and when surgeons act out I don't say anything and just keep working but it does bother me. I haven't made 'friends' with any of the surgeons or residents because I'm pretty quiet and feel like I don't know them that well. I feel bad because basically all of the other nurses and ST's are outgoing and talkative and the surgeons know their names and they laugh and have a good time...I just feel like I'm not fitting in...although I'm fine with the nursing/ST staff and have a good time working with them. Should I just bail now? I don't know what to do because I do like my job half of the time, half of the time I'm thinking I should find something else. I'm really non-confrontational and just hate the thought of walking on eggshells everyday trying not to make someone mad. I don't ever want to go to work (don't think too many people do) and I sometimes call off because of it. I know I wouldn't be able to deal with the floor, either. I knew that in nursing school. Thoughts or opinions? Am I being too hard on myself like everyone says?

[GadgetRN71, ASN, RN]

I used to work in a Trauma I OR in Los Angeles and loved it except management was horrible. I love working with the Trauma surgeons, they rarely got upset and I am sure it was because they were sooo competent. The surgeons that get ***** are usually the ones with no confidence. I now work in a surgery center where there are more egos but I love the place. We can be really busy and then it can be pretty quiet. I have to say, I miss the traumas (MGSW, MS, etc) and those great surgeons (basically with no ego at all).

Get your experience and then move on. The Hosp where I got my training is known throughout the country. When my co-workers find out where I used to work they are really impressed.

You are right about Trauma surgeons being some of the nicest to work with..I think it's because they don't have time for the drama,KWIM? They are calm because you have to be when the poop hits the fan. You're also right about the biggest jerks being the ones with no confidence or skill. You look at some of them and wonder how they function in society!