Best peri-op preceptor

[RNproudtobe]

Curious about how other hospitals do peri-op orientation. We have 6 week peri-op 101 classroom, then 6month training in ORs. Have tried 1 preceptor to 1 new RN and Different preceptor for each specialty, which has made our new RNs feel like they have to get to know new preceptor every month rather than consistency. We are 10 room OR, have team leads for Vascular/thoracic, GYN/urology/robotics, ortho, neuro, plastics, ENT.

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

Staffing doesn't really allow us to do 1 to 1 preceptors. We try to keep the same person in each specialty, but if there's a day off or a later shift for the preceptor, then the orientee has to spend the day with someone else. There's also other reasons we can't keep them paired up. You could try to put a positive spin on it that the orientees will get to see a variety of ways to do things, and then they can pick and choose what they like best to form their own routine.

As for preceptors, are they required to attend classes on precepting? Some people just aren't meant for the role, or mean well but end up doing a "my way or the highway" mentality that only makes the orientee uncomfortable. Perhaps education on how to be a preceptor would help those who take on the role.