Perks of working in the OR: Taking Call
Taking "call" in the operating room as a nurse is a great way to earn more money because it provides an opportunity to make additional income, often at a higher rate. When a nurse is on call, it means they are available to come in and assist with surgeries or other urgent medical procedures outside of their regular shift hours. If the hospital or facility needs the nurse to come in while they are on call, they are typically compensated at a higher rate, often time and a half, which is 1.5 times their normal hourly wage. This allows nurses to earn extra money for being available and for the inconvenience of having to drop everything and come to work at short notice.
Having the ability to take call has been great at motivating me to work extra for the fun expenses I like to splurge on in my life (aka my lips!) If anyone has any further questions about taking "call" or what it all entails leave a comment below!!
Okay, so in my last post, I touched on the financial perks of taking 'call' as an OR nurse. And don't get me wrong, that extra income is a HUGE motivator for those fun splurges (hello, new lipstick!). But as an experienced OR nurse, I want to share a bit more, especially for any new grads out there thinking about this path. It's not just about the money; it's a whole experience. So, what does being on call really mean beyond just waiting by the phone? Well, it means being ready for anything. You could be called in for a sudden trauma – a car accident victim needing immediate surgery. Or it could be an emergent appendectomy, a C-section in the middle of the night, or a ruptured aneurysm. The types of cases vary wildly, and that's one of the most intense, yet rewarding, aspects. You're constantly tested, and your critical thinking skills get a serious workout. This isn't your typical routine shift; it's about being prepared for the unexpected. For a new grad nurse, taking call can feel daunting at first. It requires solid organization – having your bag packed, knowing your route to the hospital, and ensuring you're within the required response time. But it also builds incredible confidence. You learn to rely on your instincts and your team in high-pressure situations. I've seen firsthand how nurses grow exponentially when they embrace these challenges. It's definitely a learning curve, but the exposure to a diverse range of urgent cases makes you a much more well-rounded and skilled OR nurse. And speaking of benefits, beyond the obvious financial boost, there are other aspects that make nursing, and specifically OR nursing with call, so rewarding. There's an immense sense of purpose that comes from knowing you're there for someone during their most vulnerable moments. Being part of a team that saves lives and changes outcomes is incredibly powerful. The camaraderie with your fellow OR nurses and surgical team during those late-night or early-morning calls is something special. You bond over shared experiences that regular shifts just don't offer. Also, while 'call' means flexibility in being available, it often also translates to a certain level of autonomy and respect within the unit. You're trusted to handle critical situations. For those of us who thrive on dynamic environments and continuous learning, it’s a perfect fit. It truly enhances your professional development and keeps your skills sharp. So, if you're a nurse considering the OR, or wondering if 'call' is for you, I'd say weigh the financial incentives against the unique professional growth and the incredible impact you'll make. It's demanding, yes, but for me, the rewards – both tangible and intangible – have been absolutely worth it.