Mackermom

First, I could never deny credit to Surgical techs for their role in the OR. I worked as a scrub tech for a year after I graduated while waiting for an RN position to become available at the Trauma Center I worked at for many years. It was the best experience in preparation for circulating that a nurse could have. There is a great difference in the two rolls, though, I'm sure you know. A much broader scope of knowledge is required than any tech programs provides. I do not think that having a Registered Nurse "available" is the answer. If you are thinking of an ambulatory surgical facility or suite it may be one thing but in the venues I have and do work in it just doesn't fly. Not all facilities are trauma centers but any case can turn into a patient trauma and I prefer to have nurse at my side if I am on the table. I am a CNOR and agree AORN should be doing a better job of promoting my chosen career.

First, I could never deny credit to Surgical techs for their role in the OR. I worked as a scrub tech for a year after I graduated while waiting for an RN position to become available at the Trauma Center I worked at for many years. It was the best experience in preparation for circulating that a nurse could have. There is a great difference in the two rolls, though, I'm sure you know. A much broader scope of knowledge is required than any tech programs provides. I do not think that having a Registered Nurse "available" is the answer. If you are thinking of an ambulatory surgical facility or suite it may be one thing but in the venues I have and do work in it just doesn't fly. Not all facilities are trauma centers but any case can turn into a patient trauma and I prefer to have nurse at my side if I am on the table. I am a CNOR and agree AORN should be doing a better job of promoting my chosen career.

If you are having problems finding a job, don't overlook the opportunity of a VA hospital. They are hiring in many locations, provide a great venue to continue to learn, teach and practice. Great benefits, pay, too. Also consider community health centers. These provide exposure to family practices, including peds.

Why do sites like this not list jobs for the OR?? There is a great need for care of a Registered Nurse in the OR! Would you trust your care in an OR setting to a surgical tech? I hope NOT! Having worked in an OR my entire life I can not stress enough the need for CRITICAL THINKING that a licensed Registered Nurse provides in this setting. During trauma surgery, neurosurgical procedures, open heart, pediatric (including prenatal) procedures would you want a 8 month trained surgical technician, with NO medical training, assisting in a code if you or your mother/child arrested?? Don't tell me it isn't nursing! I would tell you you were wrong! No one better at my side than an RN with me during surgery!! Do Not compromise.