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How long does it take to orient as a nurse nurse in the operating room? Been a nurse 25 years and transitioning to scrub and circulate in OR. I have experience in the ER, pre op , pacu and endo. What is considered a reasonable time frame ?


December 18th, 2022

The operating room is a unique environment. I have precepted nurses that did the pre/post workflow and then moved into the circulator role. Each nurse is individual and some take to it sooner than others. I would say 6 months to a year to be really comfortable. Ask questions! Listen to the seasoned nurses around you and the surgical techs that have experience, then apply your professional practice to what you learn from them and add to it. I loved working in the OR and still miss it. Patient safety is key - so even if the surgeon was upset - you move on from that to make sure the patient outcome is good. It's not about you it's about the patient. Speak up for what you know is right at the right time and trust your instincts!

March 9th, 2023

It takes at least 6 to 8 months to orient to both scrub and circulating roles in the OR. Don't get discouraged. It's not like any other area of nursing.

December 30th, 2022

There are many different parameters to consider it such as what type of cases, what hospital like level 1 or not, and what location what the hospital, what services you will do like for instance transplants cases we never know. Even though we have an experience but sometimes we have unpredictable cases which can disorient. Knowledge can provide you more confidence. So my advice, ask questions, and show your interest. Don’t be afraid asking questions, may help a lot. Knowing the type of procedure can help to predict some of the next steps. Just don’t give your self any time frame because everyone is different. Unfortunately, some people didn’t become professional after 20 years and some after a year. And good luck

December 16th, 2022

Usually takes a good year before you actually feel comfortable doing most cases in OR. On call helps build confidence and case volumes. Don't expect to know everything, the OR is a dynamic environment and you learn something new all the time.

April 7th, 2023

Minimum of 3-6 months.