Fun2

How did you do the AORN review course? Did you only read through the modules, and then take the one practice test at the end? How long have you been in the OR? I have done the AORN course, and have also ordered the practice test CD. I have Alexander's, Kohns, and the AORN standards as well to skim through certain topics.

I don't think a sign is going to stop someone from being nasty....just sayin'. I also don't think the signs are professional.

UT Southwestern is also a partnership facility.

I am graduating from this program next week! I definitely recommend it! It took 13 months for me to complete it....not sure if it varies depending on when you start. I started Feb, 2009. There are no classes during Christmas break. It's not too time-demanding, and for the most part, it is clear what is expected of you. There aren't any tests that have been designed to fail you out. Good luck to you all!

So very sad....such a knowledgeable, helpful person. My deepest sympathy to her family.

AORN is big, and with AORN and ANA joining forces, I'm sure it will be a long time, if ever, that RNs are taken completely out. I guess you should always ask if there is a nurse in the OR if you have surgery. In Texas, there definitely is!

I got my AORN Standards book in the mail yesterday! I have about 3 weeks left to finish my BSN program, then I'll start reading the Standards... I plan to buy the questions CD later as well. Unfortunately, my '2-year' mark (7/21) will put me having to wait until at least October to take the CNOR exam.

I'm getting my BSN for me...not for more pay. I'll register to take the CNOR exam after July for myself as well... Extra pay would be nice, but I am seeking the knowledge, etc for my own self-worth. :)

Was this your first time to scrub in, or have you been taught proper technique?

What is the drive time for rush hour from Katy to MDA?

This is my concern as well. I am almost finish with my RN-BSN bridge, and would like to continue on later down the road. (I think I better take a break!!) :)

He has earned the right to have LPN on his badge, but should only be allowed to do scrub duties. We have an LVN who is a scrub. I give her the respect she deserves, she is a scrub nurse. However, by law, she can't circulate, nor do assessments.

I think the UnderArmor brand is suppose to be good.... Make sure you get the winter version, and not the 'stay dry' version. :) Sporting goods stores that sell clothing should have this. Also, you could stock up on the packages of hand and feet warmers. If you hands and/or feet stay warm, it should help your body stay warm. If I tried to wear sweats over my scrubs, I'd have a bad case of static cling!!!! (If you do this, you better pack a dryer sheet too!) :)

If you haven't already, go ahead and apply to any and all OR Internships you can! Many hire right out of school, and with you having other experience, I'm sure you'll find someone willing to train you. Best of luck...the OR is great!

I'm not sure about an official mentor program for SNs, but if you have questions, I would be happy to help, as I'm sure many of us on here would be. I think going to the monthly meetings would be a good idea. You can get to know other OR nurses in your area, which could help you with job searches later on, etc. This also could help you gain knowledge that would help when you really have to learn it...after employment. It won't be such 'new information' if you've seen/heard about it before, through an AORN meeting.