how does one become an OR nurse

[Nolander]

Aside from the obvious fact of being an RN, what else does it take. Can I take a position in the OR as a new grad, or do they require more specific education or experience in other units? Can ADN-RN's work in the OR or do only RN-BSN's get that opportunity?

[Anisettes, BSN, RN]

Only requirement is being an RN (any degree). You can't just 'drop-in' to the OR, though. Depending on your hospital's program you'll undergo a 6-9 month training period - paid on the job training. And because of that, most places require you to sign a contract to stay 1-2 years in that position or pay them back a set sum in return for training you. Some hospitals take on new grads, some don't. Good luck!

[netglow, ASN, RN]

Sure you can work in an OR. Just apply to OR positions. However I rarely see openings except ambulatory surg centers. These should be asking at least 1-2 years experience as there is no residency... they expect you to have got that from a solid (hospital) OR. Some nurses will say that the good ORs don't lose nurses, thus few openings.

[Zookeeper3]

Aside from the obvious fact of being an RN, what else does it take. Can I take a position in the OR as a new grad, or do they require more specific education or experience in other units? Can ADN-RN's work in the OR or do only RN-BSN's get that opportunity?

Where I am employed, in NC, BSN is not a consideration for the OR... experience is. Nurses in the OR depending upon the OR, give drugs, aside from anesthesia, need to be skilled in sterile technique, skin protection is huge, knowing radiology standards is a plus.

Our general OR does not take new grads, nor does the procedure labs that I work in, they prefer either critical care, PACU or ER exp. Consider those positions as a potential stepping stone. Know that areas across the country differ, and you may have options where you are as a new grad. There are many training programs out there that prefer new nurses void of bad habits to train and mold as they require.

May I suggest that you call several managers of the OR and ask them, specific to your area, the best options for hire? Simply calling the hospitals main number and asking to be connected to the OR manager's number and leaving a message is an easy way to go about this. The problem is that requirements vary in every hospital and state, so I have no specifics to lead you in a better direction.

Good luck and keep making calls, write down contact names and numbers and follow up. Wish you the best in your career choice!