How to orientate new employees

[lozstar, BSN, MSN, RN]

Hi everyone

I would love to hear about how you orientate new nurses to your departments. For instance, is there a certain structure that you follow? Do you have a checklist that you use?

I have orientated a couple of nurses before but I have never had time to sit down and really plan anything. I would really like to do this and would love some input. I have the an orientation department booklet to give them, competencies and a physical department checklist for the new hire to complete (sort of like a seek and find thing).

Looking forward to hearing from you,

Lauren

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

I think the word you want is "orient", not orientate.

We have a departmental checklist for the generic things like where is this and that. Then we have competencies based on knowledge, technical skill and attitude. These stem from the JC National Pt Safety Goals and the equipment, policies and procedures for that department. Don't forget to have a competency on how to use the IV pump. Amazing how that gets missed sometimes. Good luck!

[NurseLatteDNP, MSN, DNP, RN]

I hand a list to my preceptors of everything they should be teaching each week to their orientees. Of course they also get a pathway.

Orientees get a folder with instructions of various topcs and they meet with me every week to review their goals and progress.

[mariebailey, MSN, RN]

I think the word you want is "orient", not orientate.

unless she's in the UK