New Grads ....how long until they can float ?

[DaddyO]

Hi,

just wondering if new grads can float after orientation, or is there usually a timeline ? I know this may be hospital specific, just wondering what others have heard or experienced.

I ask this, because there is a PT position available with the posibility of FT hours.....but in the event the hours are not available I would try to ask to be floated.

[Do-over, ASN, RN]

I started floating after a few months as a new grad. To ICU, so I thought it was a bit soon. I don't normally mind it, but I told my boss that we should at least get a shift or two of orientation there first.

[Do-over, ASN, RN]

whats floating?

Floating is getting temporarily re-assigned to a different unit/floor during your shift.

[RNKPCE]

Every hospital is different. Usually it is the nurse who doesn't want to float. However from management's point of view if you hire a new employee there is usually a probation period beyond orientation, how can you assess if your new employee is doing well or not if they aren't on your unit. More importantly it takes a while to be comfortable on a new unit before moving to another new unit. You are just starting to know the system and which staff are your biggest supports.

[boogsmom]

1 year for new grads at our hosp. I'm on a surgical floor, and we basically staff the hospital. Usually 1 nurse per shift is floated to another floor. I don't know how long it is for experienced nurses, I'd assume just a few months, if that.