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Discussion

How's training/orientation for a regular RN job?

New grad here. I was wondering how long/in-depth the training/orientation process is for a regular RN position? Is there a grace period where you're paired with a preceptor and gradually oriented to the unit? Or are you expected to be independent and high functioning from the get go?

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    Any facility that does not provide a proper orientation for a new graduate should be worrisome. Ideally you should have at least 8 weeks of orientation. The length and type of orientation will depend on where you work, however, you surely should not just be "thrown to the Wolves." Although it does happen...

    Try to look for new graduate positions and residencies as they should provide you with appropriate orientation processes. You can often find information for new graduate nurses on hospital and facility websites.

    Good luck!

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    • Author

    The reason I ask is because I've been unsuccessful in getting interviews for new grad programs within California. I noticed some regular RN positions say "1 year preferred" and some don't have any experience requirement at all. I was wondering it it's wise (from a new grad perspective) to pursue regular RN jobs without any experience.

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    If it says "preferred" you can still apply. Usually the positions that state "required" are difficult to get.

    As a new grad I applied to EVERYTHING. The worst they can say is no.

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    Orientation depth and length depends on the facility. The fact that you're a new grad applying for a non-new grad position may or may not result in a longer orientation. You're not likely to get the same thoroughness than you'd get in a new-grad residency/program.

    My first job wasn't in a new-grad program. I had the same orientation any new hire to the hospital had: a week of classroom training followed by 30 days of orientation where I worked alongside a RN/LVN.

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    Where I'll be starting, they provide a residency type of orientation that is minimally 12 weeks and includes several weeks of twice weekly didactic education. You're paired with at least two preceptors (day and night).

    In the ER where I've worked as a tech, new grads usually get 6 weeks with a preceptor. They may have the same preceptor the whole time or they may bounce around preceptors.

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