Floating

[tolerantgirl]

This is my first year in nursing. I have been off orientation for 3 months. I have never floated anywhere before. I'm not really sure what the floating policies are at my hospital. My question is, "Should I receive orientation to that unit before I float"? Just wondering because I want to do the right thing. I have asked this very same question to my charge nurse but I really can't get a definite answer.

[rn4ever?]

Ideally you should. But unfortunately, that's always not the case---especially if they are short-staffed in another unit and no one else could cover.

[tolerantgirl]

I asked a couple of months ago if I could get orientation over on the other floor so that when I am floated, I will know where everything ids, how things go, etc. but I was told that there is not enough money in the budget to do that. Doesn't make sense to me to float someone to a floor they have never worked on without some orientation, but welcome to nursing where nothing administration does makes sense

[rn5350]

Usually, the unit you are floated to is soo happy to have you that they wont mind to show you where everything you need will be. I know it gets hectic, but I have never been oriented prior to a float, so if i can do it, I am pretty sure you will be just fine. Most days I float I find its an even nicer day there than on my regular unit.

Just remember you are there for the patient and try not to get caught up in the drama. Don't worry...your shift will be over soon!

[RNperdiem, RN]

Orientation usually consists of "the Pyxis is here, the charts are kept over there and here is your patient assignment".

Floating as a new grad can work if the floor is similar to where you normally work, the charge nurse gives you a simple assignment and is available to help you.

[JomoNurse]

they usually only float you to a similiar type unit. and even if they don't, you'll find that every unit is pretty much ran the same way. there may be slightly different charting to do, and things will be in different places, but it's usually the same. you'll do just fine with a quick, 1 minute "the med machine is over there, IV tubing is in that corner, those are the charts, and here is your assignment for tonight."

[PostOpPrincess, BSN, RN]

Floating is a lesson in flexibility and coping with stress, making do with what you are given, and prioritizing--which will be making sure your patients are kept to the same state (do no harm) or progressively better. Buffing and puffing may not be doable--be aware of that so that you won't "beat" yourself up for not being your norm.

Do not expect to be at your top--you are out of your element.... Most importantly, pay attention to SAFETY. Double check everything if you have doubt.

Good luck. It can be done.

[OrthoRN09]

We do not get orientation on any units we float to. We could go anywhere, except the ICU's, PACU, ER, or L&D. My first float was to the vent unit. It sucked and I hope to never go back there.

[NeoNurseTX, RN]

No orientation.. our CNO or whatever he is says a nurse is a nurse is a nurse. Well I'd like to see him come work a shift on my unit!!

[RXD, RN]

I got off orientation about 4 months ago, last week I floated the first time to a brand new floor, never been oriented to that floor. they gave me easy assignments and charge nurse was very helpful. everything worked out fine for me...if i can do it, u can too...