unit-based orientations

[NCNocRN]

A good preceptor is essential to a good orientation experience. Your preceptor will either make or break you. If you feel that the preceptor assigned to you is not a good "match" (for whatever reason), do not hesitate to let your concerns be known to the unit nurse manager. Ask for a different preceptor. Also beware of being assigned to many different nurses during orientation, due to scheduling "glitches." Makes for wasted orientation days and poor continuity of learning. A good preceptor should be genuinely supportive, competent and should enjoy the role of preceptor. Also, negotiate the time on orientation--make sure it is adequate.

[purplemania, BSN, RN]

You will probably get a checkoff list. Use that to set daily or weekly goals. I have seen orientees waste time by not asking questions and only doing what was required without seeking out new experiences. Admit it when you don't understand something or make a mistake. Ask for feedback from the preceptor and other nurses. Good luck!

[jcornett]

I will be graduating from a BSN program in May, and would like to know what to look for in a good unit-based orientation program. I beleive this may make or break my satisfaction level just starting out. Any ideas?