Where to go from Circulating?

CVORscrubRN, BSN, RN · Apr 30, 2012

Excellent question! I can't offer any insight, as I started in the OR as a new grad at 32 years old as well. Once off orientation in a few months, I'll be 33. At our hospital OR we have quite a few nurses in their 40s, 50s, and even 60s, so I know some just keep going and going. But as someone new to the specialty, I look forward to watching responses to see what types of things other OR nurses eventually transition into. I can't imagine ever leaving the OR setting!

Editorial Team / Admin · Apr 30, 2012

I've been an OR nurse for just shy of seven years. Soon I'll be starting an MSN program in nursing education. My plan once I graduate is to work in the OR full time and teach part time. If I ever get to the point of being physically unable to work in the OR, I'll teach full time. We have several nurses in their late fifties and a few in their early sixties still going strong, and I hope to still be able to work OR even if just part time until I retire.

Argo · Apr 30, 2012

OR all the way.... I know nurses that are over 60 and still get around alright... Just do easier services.

Once you get more experience you will run around a lot less too.

jeckrn, BSN, RN · Apr 30, 2012

As you can more experience in the OR the amount of running will be decreased and the demand is not so diffucult. You will use the old saying "work smarter not harder". Just like RN's work until they retire on the floor we also work in the OR until then.

CIRQL8 · Apr 30, 2012

I agree with jeckrn. Working smarter. But periop or some other area of nursing; it is likely that one may want to move onward. I've thought of interventional radiology. Maybe. Not for several years. Then again, maybe not. I just really love periop. I haven't motivation to move on with my education however, if I did, I would go towards CRNA. the way that I feel right now, I will be a circulator until I retire. (or win the lottery).

tachy · May 1, 2012

Age is really just a number. As long as you stay active and take care of your body there is no reason to believe you should not be able to do anything you do now. I know 50 year olds who are tri-athletes and I've seen patients in their 30's having CABG. It's really just a mindset and a way of living Plus, doing what you love keeps you young! Look at Mick Jagger, ha ha!

cwazycwissyRN, RN · May 2, 2012

I am 56 and have some days that kick my keester, that I will admit. I also question if this is what I want to do for the next 10 to 20 years. I think you are correct with these thoughts. I can do it, the question is, do I want to do it. Yes, after 13 years in the OR, I have learned to work smarter, the things that come with experience and time. That helps. Floor nursing, SCU and ER where I had my previous experience are also demanding areas. I love my job, so for now I will stay. I always keep one eye open on other opportunities. I would not be honest if I denied that. That includes finding something that has nothing to do with nursing as an option also. Great question with wise insight. Always good to have a plan B for your future.

RNOTODAY, BSN, RN · May 10, 2012

where I work, they somehow everyday get put into easer, lighter services, put into cases where little to no runnng is required. they make out allright. so will you and i at that age.... good luck and welcome to the most politi

cally controlled dept in the hosptal!!!!!