What do you think about this? Tips please

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Specializes in NICU, ER, OR.

I worked in a level 1 hospital in the OR for a year. I did take a few weeks off for an illness during that year. Basically that year was all spent on orientation to all the specialties. I was "on my own" for 1 week.Then, I left due to a number of health/family issues.

I really loved the OR, and want to go back, albeit to another facility. How should I "represent" myself? I mean, I only spent a short time on my own, but I certainly have more experience than someone who has never set foot in an OR before, right? and, I did take the peri op 101 course by AORN. So, whats your opinion on going to another OR, and how should I represent myself, experience-wise? (I know not to lie, just how should I "word " it?)

Thanks everyone for any info/comments/opinions!!!!

I really miss the OR!!!!!

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Specializes in NICU, ER, OR.

*Bump* looking for responses!!!!!!

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Why can't you go back to your original OR? If it was for medical reasons, wouldn't they have known, and would accept you back?

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Keep in mind that I haven’t been in this situation so my advice is based on what I think I would do.

Represent yourself as you described above but do not sell yourself short. Let them know you were only solo for about a week but also tell them of any big or unique cases you were involved in (orientee or not) so they can see your experience. You are correct that you would be a huge asset over someone who has no experience.

Be ready to answer why you left the other position because they will want to know. They do not want a re-occurrence of the absence at their facility either as a lot of time and money is invested in the orientation of a new OR nurse.

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Specializes in Operating Room Nursing.

My advice is to be honest about the health issues you had at the other facility and to try and impress them with your enthusiasm on working in the OR.

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Specializes in NICU, ER, OR.

Thanks everyone for your replies thus far.....

Feeling a lil bit nervous about this. I guess I dont want to give them the impression that I am "unhealthy", you know?

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