What is the best route to take if I want to work in the OR as a RN?!
Question:
What is the best route to take if I want to work in the OR as a RN?
This is just for future reference as I am about to start my first year of the RN program.... I understand I will probably need a few years experience before I am able to work in that area, but I was wondering if anyone knew the best way to get into that department as far as any classes or which department I should start out. I eventually one day want to work in Surgery.
Answers:
You're right, it never hurts to be a surgical tech for even a week or so to get to know the doctors before you ask them if you can be their RN. This is assuming that the hospital will not just assign you to the OR if you request it. A lot of nurses can't take the blood and guts, so you should get in fine. You will probably just have to do some training on sterile technique, how the drills and saws work, etc... I'm sure another surgical RN would show you the ropes and then off you go! =)
P.S. - Always put on the shoe covers even if it is not required. Doctors like to think they are very clean but I can't count how many times my covers had blood on them after we were done with OR cases. This could be blood you bring home and track on the carpet. =P