Only 2 weeks of orientation

[carrie_c]

I finally got a job at a small hospital about 40 minutes away from me. It is only a prn position, and I really didn't want it, but I took it because no one else is hiring new grads. I was told I would be on orientation for a month since I just graduated in May, but when I went in the other day, I had 3 patients by myself and got a new admit, making it 4 patients on my own. I was not expecting this at all. The charge nurse did help me some, but I still felt like I had no idea what I was doing. Is this normal? Should I already be working on my own only after 2 weeks?

[sogreenrn]

what happened to your preceptor?? if your charge was acting as your preceptor and going over things with you and making sure you do the right thing, i guess that's ok? i couldn't imagine taking my own FOUR patients after 2 weeks. hang in there. ask for help when you need it!!

[carrie_c]

The charge nurse started out as my preceptor, but then they made her do charge only, so I was put with someone else, but she wasn't scheduled to work that day. Which really makes no sense to me. Then I went in today, and had 7 patients. It's crazy!

[poopprincess]

Have you spoken up and told them that you don't feel ready? I would have a sit down meeting with the NM and discuss your concerns. Maybe they need a gentle reminder that even though you are PRN, you are still a new grad.