How long should I give myself to orient on a unit before I feel like I'm moving too slow or behind?

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

The time needed for unit orientation can vary widely based on your prior experience, the complexity of the unit, and the specific demands of your new role.

Give yourself time. In my experience, the magic ingredient is time.

You bring some excellent transferable skills, but you are now working in a different environment with a different patient population compared to the emergency department. Physicians may not be readily available, so you will need to rely on your charge nurse for clinical guidance. Intravenous lines are typically started in the forearm rather than the antecubital area. You will encounter a wide range of adult diseases, learn new medications, and manage multiple patients simultaneously. Time management is critical in this setting.

Typically, orientations range from a few weeks to a couple of months. It's essential to focus on your own learning pace and comfort level. If you need an extension, talk to your educator and manager. If you're unsure whether you're moving too slow or are behind, consider these factors:

Set clear goals. Discuss with your preceptor or manager what milestones you should reach at various points in your orientation. They should be measurable goals. For example, if you are told to "Improve your time management," a good response is, "What would that look like specifically?" This can help you gauge your progress more objectively.

Seek feedback. Regularly ask for constructive feedback from your preceptor or colleagues. At the very least, you should be receiving weekly feedback. If possible, walk out to the parking area with your preceptor after your shift to debrief the day. Your preceptor can offer insights into your progress and areas where you might need additional focus.

Self-assessment: Reflect on your confidence and competence in performing tasks. You're likely on track if you feel comfortable with the skills and knowledge acquired.

Time management. Track how long it takes you to complete tasks compared to expected times. If you consistently fall behind, it may indicate areas where you need more practice.

Remember, adapting to a new unit is normal, especially if it has different protocols or a different patient population. The goal is to become proficient and confident, not just to complete tasks quickly.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth