good or bad (orientation)

I'd probably ask more questions. Does the orientation period include any classroom instruction or job-related certification (ACLS, NRP, etc)? Would you be assigned a consistent preceptor during your orientation, or would you work with several different nurses?

This is not from personal experience. But my radar immediately went up with your question.

My first thought is that an unset orientation time can quickly become a case of "but the other new nurses only needed 6 weeks on the floor, I don't know what your problem is". Thus attempting to quickly facilitate your being on your own.

I'd question why they don't have a set orientation time (mine is 12 weeks min). Then I'd question what the orientation time frame was of the last several new nurses they hired (giving you an idea of what they will tolerate).

12-16 weeks is not unreasonable for a hospital setting, anything less and you are getting screwed over, and obviously they are not going to be happy with an orientation of 9 months, so my advise is to really pin them down on this one before you commit yourself.

Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy. Good luck in your job search.

Angela

This is not from personal experience. But my radar immediately went up with your question.

My first thought is that an unset orientation time can quickly become a case of "but the other new nurses only needed 6 weeks on the floor, I don't know what your problem is". Thus attempting to quickly facilitate your being on your own.

I'd question why they don't have a set orientation time (mine is 12 weeks min). Then I'd question what the orientation time frame was of the last several new nurses they hired (giving you an idea of what they will tolerate).

12-16 weeks is not unreasonable for a hospital setting, anything less and you are getting screwed over, and obviously they are not going to be happy with an orientation of 9 months, so my advise is to really pin them down on this one before you commit yourself.

Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy. Good luck in your job search.

Angela

The cynical side of me says that your orientation will end when they are a nurse short and don't want to pay an agency or per diem nurse to come in, so with no warning, you will be off orientation...

Unless there are more specific requirements you have to fill other than just "feeling comfortable" with a full assignment, then I'd have to consider another position.

Check and see if they will specifically outline what is expected of you before taking a job. There is also no hard and fast rule about how long it should take you to orient.

Blee

If they are true to their word than the idea of you deciding when you are ready allows for individuality in learning, takes the anxiety out of the process. Remember to ask questions even the one you may think are too simple or dumb ones. If your facilitator is well chosen you will do well. If not ask for another, speak up.

Try to relax and don't be a smart ass, you can learn from everyone if you remain open to new knowledge.