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Excellent question! I can't offer any insight, as I started in the OR as a new grad at 32 years old as well. Once off orientation in a few months, I'll be 33. At our hospital OR we have quite a few nurses in their 40s, 50s, and even 60s, so I know some just keep going and going. But as someone new to the specialty, I look forward to watching responses to see what types of things other OR nurses eventually transition into. I can't imagine ever leaving the OR setting!
I've been an OR nurse for just shy of seven years. Soon I'll be starting an MSN program in nursing education. My plan once I graduate is to work in the OR full time and teach part time. If I ever get to the point of being physically unable to work in the OR, I'll teach full time. We have several nurses in their late fifties and a few in their early sixties still going strong, and I hope to still be able to work OR even if just part time until I retire.
I agree with jeckrn. Working smarter. But periop or some other area of nursing; it is likely that one may want to move onward. I've thought of interventional radiology. Maybe. Not for several years. Then again, maybe not. I just really love periop. I haven't motivation to move on with my education however, if I did, I would go towards CRNA. the way that I feel right now, I will be a circulator until I retire. (or win the lottery).
Age is really just a number. As long as you stay active and take care of your body there is no reason to believe you should not be able to do anything you do now. I know 50 year olds who are tri-athletes and I've seen patients in their 30's having CABG. It's really just a mindset and a way of living Plus, doing what you love keeps you young! Look at Mick Jagger, ha ha!
I am 56 and have some days that kick my keester, that I will admit. I also question if this is what I want to do for the next 10 to 20 years. I think you are correct with these thoughts. I can do it, the question is, do I want to do it. Yes, after 13 years in the OR, I have learned to work smarter, the things that come with experience and time. That helps. Floor nursing, SCU and ER where I had my previous experience are also demanding areas. I love my job, so for now I will stay. I always keep one eye open on other opportunities. I would not be honest if I denied that. That includes finding something that has nothing to do with nursing as an option also. Great question with wise insight. Always good to have a plan B for your future.
Jgruber215
20 Posts
Hi everyone. I'm a new OR nurse (6 months)and I really enjoy my job. There is def a lot to learn but my knowledge increases daily. I plan on staying at my current hospital for some time as I do like it very much. My question is this; right now I'm 32 y/o and I enjoy being on my feet, hustling and getting wherever is needed for each case and whatever is needed throughout the case. I have a ton of energy. I'm just wondering if when I'm in my late 40s and 50s if I will feel the same. Please note that I'm not trying to put down anyone's age, pr saying that a 40 or 50 year old cant do anything a 30 y/o can. I'm just basically asking if anyone is planning on doing anything different after circulating for a while. Such as working for a vendor, going to PA school, management, etc.