What is a proper orientation period for a new LPN?

Throughout my short career in LTC I've only received, at the most, 2 days orientation as a new nurse. I even worked at one place that only oriented me for one 8-hour shift, and this had been my very first job ever as a nurse. After the 8-hour orientation period I was cut loose to work on my own.

You mentioned something about the acuity level of LTC. Actually, LTC tends to be low-acuity when compared to other fields of nursing because the patients are usually in stable condition with predictable outcomes. I have met numerous LTC nurses in my metropolitan area and through this website, and the typical orientation period in LTC is about 3 days. You should feel extraordinarily fortunate to be receiving a week of orientation, because most of the facility DONs and ADONs around here will laugh in your face if you need over 1 week. This includes new, inexperienced nurses. By the way, good luck.

Have to agree with Commuter. The most I've ever had (even as a new grad) was three day shifts and two evenings (we work rotational shifts here).

The attitude is you learnt your meds and care as a student -- orientation is just a time to learn the layout of the unit, routine, patients faces.

Even when I moved to Active/Acute Care it's five orientation shifts.

It's paid employment, not paid clinical/practicum time. Employers feel that you are educated to the level needed to practice safely. You build your knowledge base and comfort level by working and they shouldn't be responsible for training you.

The commuter is correct. My last facility only orientated for 3 days. I personally would rather have a very short orientation, maybe 1/2 day to see the different paperwork but other than that Id rather be let loose. If you are a brand new nurse complete what ever orientation they give you and seek the resources of the other nurses if you find yourself in trouble. We have all been new and understand.

I was very lucky and my facility orients new grads for 5+ weeks. (LTC) They feel it helps with retention. Most new grads oriented here stay at least a year.

I hear that RNs get many months, even 4 months for a new grad..

Most of the times you have to rely on the nursing assistants and your fellow co-worker who knows the patient to tell you who they are in places where the arm-band policy isn't adhered to (spec. for patients that can't tell you who they are).

Alitak,


I am in Va. and I have several nursing friends. It really depends on what area of Nursing you choose. For ltc in Virginia you are usually given a week of orientation and then they cut the tie for new grads. If you choose to work in a hospital then you will usually be given 3-4 months of orientation. I hope this helps, so it appears that a week of orientation is the norm for LTC. I do believe that a week is not enough, because in most LTC facilities you will be the charge nurse and have many responsibilities. I am sure you will get thru it and do fine if you choose to accept a position in LTC facility. My friend did just fine. Good luck!!!!

Nursn4me

I received about 9 days w/ a preceptor. She was very sloppy w/ her work & quick quick (because cig breaks were #1). I was glad to be let go on my own. Just remember there is always a nrsg super. in the bldg to call. You'll be fine!
Good Luck