Preceptors, Orientation, and being new

[JulieW]

Hi everyone! I read the post regarding difficulty with preceptors with much interest. I'm a brand new LVN and start orientation on the 13th at the same hospital/unit that I'm currently a CNA.

I hope all goes well with your preceptor, spitfire. Holly, you also spoke of your relationship and interactions with your preceptor. How long does the precepted orientation last for you all?

The interesting thing about my hospital is that I will orientate for only 6 shifts before being on my own (I won't count toward staffing while in orientation), and most of my preceptors will be different nurses! I may get the same one twice, but it all depends on who is working that day. From the sound of everyone elses experience, this doesn't sound normal and I am nervous that it's going to be just a crash course to the unit and I'll be on my own way too soon.

I remember from orientating as a CNA that most 'preceptors' (they don't voluntarily sign up for this) are either really annoyed to have you following them around, or are tickled pink that they get a free day of pay while you do all their work. Should I request to orientate with the same person or is this unreasonable? Do you all think I can get a decent orientation to the unit processes in 6 12-hr shifts?

I haven't been in clinicals since March. I have been doing my CNA job all summer, but I wonder if that's hindered me more because I'm very used to thinking like an aide instead of like a licensed nurse.

So sorry to ramble. Thanks for any words of advice you all can offer!

Scared newbie,

Julie

[Mijourney]

Hi JulieW,

My, my, your nursing orientation seems a bit abbreviated. Do you know what the scope of LVN practice in your hospital is? Is administration counting your experience as a CNA toward your orientation as an LVN? Sounds like this may be what is happening in my opinion. I think this approach is unfortunate, because at this time, an LVN is still considered a nurse and should be trained as one and not simply as an extension of a CNA. Your example is why many RNs are frustrated in their role supervising LPN/LVNs. Hospital administration takes neither RNs nor LPN/LVNs seriously (yes, I know there is a nursing shortage). Based on your post, I would definitely inquire about the length of your orientation especially if this is not standard for your hospital. If administation dances around the issue, I would consider refusing a routine load of patients for a while until you felt comfortable practicing as a nurse. You deserve better in my opinion. Best wishes.