In "New Graduate: 'Another World' in the OR" (Advice, p.r.n., September 2004), your consultant discouraged a new graduate from seeking a position in the OR right after graduation, recommending instead that she work at least 1 year in a medical/surgical unit first. I disagree. I entered the OR immediately upon passing the NCLEX-RN 4 years ago and I wouldn't trade the experience for anything. Many bedside skills learned in nursing school are used in the OR as well: communication, assessments, and insertion of I.V. and urinary catheters to name a few.

My facility now offers student nurse extern positions for nursing students who are considering practicing in the OR.

SHAUNA BOSTIAN, RN, CNOR, RNFA

Edwardsville, Ill.

I question the advice given to the student who wanted to start her career in the OR. A tour in the OR can improve medical/surgical nursing, especially in understanding sterile technique and infection control, which are sadly lacking today. I suggest that anyone interested in OR nursing take a course in sterile technique and operating room technique.

DAISY J. SPENDLOVE, RN (Ret.)

Roy, Utah