PACU preceptorship - will this restrict my new grad options??

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To start, my motivation to become a nurse was because of OR nursing. Sadly, I did NOT get an OR preceptorship placement - but instead got PACU. I want to make the best of it, and learn as much as I can, but I also know that new grads do NOT start out in the PACU!!  Now I am worried that this placement will restrict my "marketability" when I apply to the limited new grad OR programs in my area (there are only two). If I don't get accepted in to a New Grad OR program after I graduate, I will totally apply for any new grad position I can get, but I worry that this PACU position is really going to limit me.

Any insight would be helpful!  I tried to get a different assignment, but I didn't get anywhere with that, so this is my fate for the last 8 weeks of school. 

Experienced or new grad nurses: does your preceptorship placement have a large influence on what positions you are eligible for after graduation?  Or does it not matter?  I am such a planner, and did so much additional work during nursing school (VP of school student nursing assoc, stepped up as interim nursing lab tech when I was asked, etc) - I am feeling defeated.  I am in the Bay Area of No. California. 

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Specializes in OR, Nursing Professional Development.

If you want the OR, it is unlikely that doing your preceptorship in PACU will hinder you. In fact, there are many schools that either don't offer the OR as a preceptorship or even a preceptorship at all. Plus, you will in no way learn enough in a preceptorship to function as an OR nurse after graduation- you will still need the full, solid OR orientation.

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OK thank you!  That actually makes me feel better. I will just put my hours in to complete this last rotation, and focus on passing NCLEX. 

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Specializes in Vents, Telemetry, Home Care, Home infusion.

PACU is a good placement as you will interact with OR staff receiving patients to PACU unit.  Show great interest in learning about PACU and polishing nursing skills. Hope you can make a good impression and that PACU staff can put the word in to OR regarding your interest at END of practicum (keep to yourself until then) if you want to work in this facility.

Best of luck in completing this last course and slaying NCLEX.

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