I NEED new grad orientation!

elkpark · Feb 14, 2010

1. In my experience, orientation is typically full-time (at least the general orientation classes) and everyone has to attend the program, even if your ultimate position is going to be part-time. The times I've been hired to work prn at different facilities, I still had a couple weeks or so of full-time orientation before I could start working the floors. However, others may have had different experiences. I'm sure there's variation among facilities.

2. No. At that point, you are no longer a new grad, you have nursing experience. Look at all the threads here about inexperienced nurses who haven't even found a first job, but are considered not eligible for "new grad" internships simply because they've been out of school too long.

eeyorelov · Feb 14, 2010

2. If I decide to work at a hospital/agency where they do not offer orientation programs--and if I decide I want to work at a hospital after maybe 1 year later when I am no longer a new grad, will a hospital still offer me the new grad program because I never had the opportunity?

I have seen one new grad orientation for expirenced nurses at a children's hospital in my area (Seattle/Tacoma). But other then that I agree with elkpark most new grad orientations for new grad and after one year or no longer considered a new grad. If I were you I if you decide to work in a hospital after one year I would talk to the nurse recuiter to see if they have any programs for nurse who are switching specialties especially if your thinking critical care, Peds or OB. good luck!

MsRN247 · Feb 14, 2010

thanks for the info. it helps. i will try to look for that.