I have 9 years of OR nursing experience. But after a 5 year hiatus to care for my young children, no one will hire me.
A standard 2 week orientation would be sufficient to bring me up to speed. I've searched in vain for an OR nurse refresher course, figuring that might increase my hire-ability. AORN offers a plethora of courses for the currently practicing RN and a Peri-Operative Nursing 101 program
http://www.aorn.org/Education/Periop101/designed for hospital Nurse Educators to cross-train RN's already currently employed at the facility on the med/surg floor or new grads. I can't find any OR nurse refresher or even for those with no OR experience available to
individuals. Only currently practicing OR nurses are eligible to earn the CNOR certification.
Not only am I a very experienced circulating RN, but I even have lots of experience in PACU and Pre-Op holding. Unlike most OR nurses, I am proficient at IV insertion, setting up PCA's, fluid warmers, etc. I have circulated a variety of cases, day-in and day-out, including eyes, ENT, plastics, general belly cases, craniotomies, spinal fixation, arthroscopies and total replacements of all joints, lasers, cysto, ortho, vascular, bariatric, and even open heart. I can scrub and circulate C-sections.
What can I do to get my foot back into the OR suite? If I could get just 6 months under my belt, I could get a travel position
before noon on Monday. But I would cheerfully give 110% to the employer who is willing to give me the chance to prove my abilities, as well as, my personal dedication and loyalty.
It doesn't look like this forum has much activity. But maybe someone will come along with some advice.
TIA
Author