So, I’ve had a couple people now ask me what it’s like to work in the OR, and what it’s like to be a traveler in the OR, specifically. The OR is such a mystical, hidden place as a nurse. It is heavily restricted. You can’t even get into it without having a badge. And even then, if you are not authorized, you can’t get in. What goes on back there, anyway? People go in and they’re sick and when they come out, they’re better, right? Magic!
Working in the OR is cool! I get to be the gatekeeper. I get to communicate with surgeons daily, and *gasp* we even joke around sometimes. I check consents and make sure the patient is safe. I double check all the equipment, supplies, and drugs we need. I help make sure everything is sterile. But the most important thing I do is make sure the radio is working. Because what’s an OR without music? Quiet. It’s quiet.
So what is it like to travel in the OR? The number one word that comes to mind is overwhelming, in good ways and bad ways. You have to be comfortable being uncomfortable. The first few weeks of an assignment have been the hardest for me, because I’m learning a new charting system, getting used to the culture of the unit, and trying to do my best for surgeons I have never worked with. On top of all that, I have no idea where anything is, so I’m constantly hunting down equipment and supplies and asking a million questions.
In the good ways, I get to check out a new unit, make new friends, and check out cool locations. I am always asking about places to eat, things to do, and hikes in the area. I explore like crazy! I love finding neat little coffee shops and fun local places to hang out. I’m an outdoor girl, so I’m always on the lookout for fun outside activities.
I recently had an OR nurse who is looking into traveling reach out to me on Instagram, which was pretty awesome. She had a TON of questions, and it was such a blast answering them. She asked me how I liked traveling in the OR and if I would recommend it, and I answered 100% YES!! Traveling is a great way to see how different ORs work, and you get to explore new areas of the country!
So, are YOU looking into traveling in the OR? And may I offer some tips?
1: Research companies, and recruiters. Some companies pay more than others. Some support their nurses better. If you get a recruiter you don’t exactly vibe with, try another one, or look into a different company! Look for a recruiter who is going to be upfront and honest with you, gets back to you, and doesn’t push you into a location you don’t want.
2. The Big Three: Location, shift, and pay. I try to aim for two out of three. You wanna work in Seattle? Maybe you don’t have enough experience in big hospitals. How about Puyallup (there’s a pretty great hospital there, just sayin’.)? Forced to work night shift? Give it a try. It’s only 13 weeks. You got your dream location, an excellent shift, but the pay is a little less? Could be worth it. Again, it’s only 13 weeks. Maybe you can extend and get a raise in your extension.
3. Take your skills checklists seriously. They are used by the hospital to help them decide which rooms you are going to be the best fit for. But also, don’t be afraid to try new things! If anything, you can add it to your skills.
4. Read your surgeon preference cards. And if the preference cards are trash, ask the staff!! Someone knows the answer to your question and if they don’t, use your common sense. Most companies won’t let you travel until you have been working in your specialized are for at least two years. That means you have two years of previous experience to pull from. Think about what the case is, and use that experience to your advantage.
If you are considering traveling in any area as a nurse, I would definitely recommend doing it. Take the leap! You don’t have to go all the way across the country. Try a local contract, and maybe stay on at your current location PRN, that way if you don’t like it you have something to fall back on. And if you have any questions, reach out! I probably won’t be able to answer everything, but I can at least try, and get you in contact with people who DO know. Also, check out these awesome pages for support and occasional funny memes:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheGypsyNurseNetwork
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1859177557468653
Hope y’all are having great weekend! Stay safe, mask up, and do something for you this weekend!
ShutterbugRN Travels 