Hexen

D, If you know you want to work in OR, then this internship will help you get there. It's a lot easier to get a foot in the door to the OR when you've already had a little bit of experience, and that experience can be hard to come by. I had similar thoughts when requesting my OR preceptorship, that perhaps I should've done med-surg instead. In my experience with my graduating class, those who had their preceptorships in specialties seem to be finding jobs sooner. That's not to say those with med-surg preceptorships won't find jobs, but the majority of students will have their preceptorships there. You can stick out from the rest of the crowd when applying for positions in your specialty, and apply for med-surg positions as well. In reality, there won't be just one hospital you are applying to after graduation, and some hospitals do have programs for new grads to enter the OR. Don't get bummed out yet, you haven't even started! It sounds like you have some awesome credentials, and be proud of your placement. The OR is rare! :)

You're welcome! Also check out the OR sticky "Sooo you're observing in the OR" because there's really great advice in there. Those sound like great objectives so far. As you spend a few days in the OR you'll pick up on more ideas as well. The hospital I precepted at was great about breaks, and for the all-too short time I was there, there was always a relief nurse. We had at least one 15 min break and a lunch. Occasionally there was some time between cases which would allow for a quick snack too. Not sure about other hospitals. Make sure you eat a good meal before your shift! You (probably) won't freeze to death...they should give you a jacket to wear with the scrubs! The lead aprons sometimes keep you warm too. ;-) When's your first day?

Hey DLuxe, First off, congrats on an OR preceptorship! They can be quite hard to come by. Like you, I was the only student in my class to have one...and it's paid off! I've had two OR-related job offers since graduation. This setting is unlike any other, and people tend to either love or hate it. It's very team oriented, and of course with every team, you have a multitude of personalities. It's no secret that surgeons can be divas. Try to pick up quickly on the personalities of the different team members, because you will be working very closely with them. Let rude comments roll off your back, and don't take anything personal. One of the most important things to learn quickly is identifying your sterile field. Watch for the blue drapes and don't turn your back on it! If you have a question about whether something is sterile or not, ask. Getting a book is a great idea. I ordered the Pocket Guide to the Operating Room by Goldman. It's been pretty helpful. I've heard Alexander's is good too. You should review cases the night before so you know what to expect. Knowing something about the surgeries before you see them will help make a good impression by showing you are prepared and will help you ask good questions (ask a lot!). An additional source for knowledge is the AORN. Don't be afraid to jump in and start doing stuff! There's lots to do while prepping the room and the patient for surgery. I didn't start any IV's during my preceptorship, but I put in plenty of foleys. Watch carefully as your preceptor shows you how to position patients. I had several goals surrounding this because it's such an important aspect of surgery. Communication skills can be a big goal too. One of the last goals that I had was to run a case (almost) on my own. The OR may seem overwhelming at first but you will surprise yourself at how much and how quickly you will learn. Good luck! Let us know how it goes! :-D