What is an Advanced Practice Role for an OR nurse?

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Hello Beth,

I am currently a full time OR nurse with my CNOR. I am also in my 2nd year of graduate school currently on the Family Nurse Practitioner track. I do not know if FNP is what I really want to do but I feel that there are no advanced practice roles for OR nurses.

I work in NY and RN First Assists are extremely rare with the majority of first assist positions being filled by PAs. I have no interest in management (not my personality) nor education. I feel that if I continue with FNP, I would just be wasting time and money. Do you know of any Advanced Practice opportunities that would build off my many years of OR nursing? I am getting older and I cannot see myself diving under OR tables and carrying large trays and equipment for another 10 years. Thank you for your time and any advice you may offer. Have a good one and be safe. 

Dear on FNP track,

It's interesting that you describe diving under tables and carrying heavy loads. Not knowing the ins and outs of Surgery, I never really thought about it, but it does sound physical! You're wise to look down the road and plan ahead realistically.

CRNA comes to mind, because it's the same practice setting, but it doesn't directly build on your OR expertise and experience. Actually, you'd have to divert your plans and get in some critical care experience to qualify. It's a rigorous program but it could take you nicely into the sunset of your career.

Is there any chance you could keep FNP open as an option if you cannot find a better advanced practice fit? 

I'm sorry, I wish I had a better reply for you. Consider posting in the  Advanced Practice Forum . Hopefully you can glean some wisdom and insight there from our advanced practice colleagues.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

The surgeon groups I work with will use PAs and NPs interchangeably. So an NP could be the surgeon’s assistant as well as round on patients in the hospital and see patients in the office. We currently have 2 former OR nurses who went back for NP and are in that role.