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Discussion

Stuck Between 2 Specialties

Hi everyone!

I was just recently accepted in a Perioperative Nurse Residency Program. I had the opportunity to shadow and really enjoyed it! I got along with everyone on the unit and it just seemed like a wonderful environment. On top of that, the schedule is perfect: M-F 7a-3pm, no weekends/no holidays, emergency on-call hrs. Where can you find that as a new grad? I must let them know of my decision by 1/12, however, I just found out today I have an interview on 1/15 for a part-time peds position (unit not specified, just says pediatric services). Instead of working 3 twelve hour shifts, I would only be working 2 per week with "part-time" benefits.

Ultimately, I want to work in pediatrics. Before that interview came up, I was thinking of possibly transferring to a peds OR. A lot of people are telling me I might get bored in the OR, that I would lose my skills. But I also have no desire to work part time.

Thoughts?

Thank you so much!!!

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    Either opportunity sounds great and would give you experience to further your career as a nurse. It is a tough decision however. I think you need to weigh getting an "in" in your area of interest over a full time job. The part-time could turn into full time if it goes well. However, you need to make sure your finances could handle part time for a while. Also, remember the peds option is an interview which is not a sure thing, so that'd be another risk. If your finances can handle it and it's truly your dream, then go for it. Good luck!

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    Based on average tenure & turnover, Periop is a specialty that lasts... nurses either decide it's a no-go right away or they stick to it for the rest of their career. It is the "oldest" specialty throughout the country - low turnover has driven up the age of periop nurses. Nursing students rarely get a chance for any meaningful exposure in this area. Training is more lengthy (and expensive) than other specialties.

    If you like Periop, I would advise you to jump on this opportunity. It will take at least 6 months to achieve beginner/novice level competency. Afterward, you'll undoubtedly have opportunities to train in various other surgical specialties. What I'm saying is that opportunities to move into Periop are pretty rare. Fully competent OR nurses are always a very hot commodity.

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    I totally hear that. Lots of people have been telling me that usually once you're in the OR, you don't leave. I'm totally interested in it, but I will see how I like it. I was also told that I could transition into Peds OR so hopefully that's where I will end up. Thank you!!

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