Possible to find OR positions without experience?

[RabbidYoshi]

I am interested in moving to San Diego (or anywhere in California). I have 1 year of Progressive Care Experience, BSN-RN.

I want to find a position in the OR and have been searching for jobs, but after adjusting my job search many times I have yet to encounter a single job for inexperienced OR nurses IN THE ENTIRE STATE OF CALIFORNIA!!

Does anyone know of OR residency programs at California hospitals??

From the job listings it looks like the hospitals in CA rely exclusively on travelers or experienced RNs from out of state to fill their OR positions. Any advice appreciated!

[guest769224]

California is cream of the crop for nursing. They are the only state with ratios mandated by law, that hospitals abide by. And the majority of hospitals are unionized. Especially northern CA, represent by the CNA which is a very strong union.

Therefore, hospitals can afford to be selective in their candidates, such as requiring a year of existing experience in XYZ specialty.

Your best bet would be to get OR experience where you currently are, and then move. Or apply for rural communities in CA. Likely those in the Central Valley excluding Sacramento region. Might have better luck there

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

Another thing to keep in mind is that OR orientation is extremely long and may include a formal program. Many facilities may restrict the times they offer the orientation program to certain times of the year, such as starting in January and June to coincide with graduation and NCLEX passing.