Trying to transfer into OR, any advice?

[irishrnbsn]

I am an RN that has been working in Med/Surg/Telemetry for 5 years. I have been applying for OR positions and realize that in order to work in the OR I will have to apply for an internship. I have called a few hospitals and found out when they will be hiring for these internships and plan to send in my application. My question is what specifically are nurse managers in the OR looking for? I am not sure if these hospitals prefer new grads to experienced nurses and would really like to be able to nail at least one of these interviews.

What kind of questions are asked in interviews for OR nurses? What are the characteristics and strengths managers are looking for when hiring for OR positions? What should I absolutely NOT say when being interviewed? Any helpful tips or advice?

I was reading another post by an OR nurse who suggested the person should take a perioperative course? Is that reall useful? I have found that hospitals don't really take these kinds of courses into account but if any of you have experience where it has then I will certainly look into it.

Any suggestions, tips, advice, warnings, etc anyone has would be much appreciated!

Thanks,

EMD

[canesdukegirl, BSN, RN]

You don't have to take a PeriOp course to get into the OR as a resident. The course will be taught to you within the program.

If your strengths include delegation, organization, teamwork, thinking on your feet, assertiveness and patience, then mention all of those traits.

Most NMs want to know that you are going to stick around after they put you through a nurse residency program.