I asked for an extra week of orientation

Nurses New Nurse

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Specializes in NICU.

My NM came to me today because she was making the new schedule and asked if i was ready to come off orientation. My heart started racing and I think I panicked... I am allowed 8-12 weeks... The new schedule will start my 9th week of orientation or my 1st week off.... So I asked to take that one extra week. I don't know why I panicked. I just think there are so many things I haven't see yet. And my first day off orientation would of been Easter Sunday... I can't imagine we'd have full staffing that day. The last thing i need is for us to be short staffed on my first day off orientation!

Anyways I feel bad about asking for the extra week. I think I am almost ready to be by myself. I am just scared. I've got a good routine, and I am becoming more comfortable talking to doctors... There just is so much I don't know, haven't seen, and haven't done yet!!! :o

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

Don't be concerned - if you need the extra week go for it. In the whole scheme of your career, this will be only a little part of it. The extra week will make you a little more confident and that can only be positive. Good luck.

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Do feel fortunate that they are giving you that extra week. My hospital told me that they could not afford to give me any extra orientation after only being an RN for 29 days. Please realize that even if you had 5 extra weeks of orientation, it will take probably a year on the floor to have a good solid foundation. And also, if you have questions ----ASK! it is for your benefit and your pts. Good luck! MMOMRN

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Specializes in Med-Surg, Trauma, Ortho, Neuro, Cardiac.

Don't feel bad. But don't panic either. Sooner or later orientation is going to end. It's a testimony to your manager's confidence in you that she offered you to come off orientation. You just have to have a little confidence in yourself.

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Specializes in Palliative Care, NICU/NNP.

Good for you to speak up for what you need. If you need a second week ask for it but make sure it's not just out of fear of being off orientation. I bet you'll do just fine! Believe in yourself and know that it will take months to maybe a year to feel good about your practice. It's normal!

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Specializes in ED, Cardiac Medicine, Retail Health.

Great that you realized and verbalized that you needed more time. I have 8 weeks left on orientation and am feeling the pressure!!!

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