New Grad surgical float - please help!

[Florence NightinFAIL, BSN, RN]

Hi,

After weeks of looking for work (of any type) I finally got an interview for a surgical float position next week. I did not want to float but I have no options and I have bills to pay.

For those new grads (or experienced nurses) in float positions - please share your experience and tips in making a successful transition. How did you manage? And what should I do so that I don't get overwhelmed?

Thank you - any kind of trip, trick, recommendation & advice is appreciated!

P.S. What sort of unique interview questions would they ask for a surgical float position?

[NaKcl, BSN, RN]

Floating position has good and bad side of it. you might like it. My suggestion is to you to think positive. Hopefully you will like this, but if it dosen't work out, just tell the manager that you would like to settle in one floor for a while. Floating nurse has advantages of experiencing various area in the hospital. try to be a team player and ask questions if you do not know.

Goo luck on your interview and new job!

[Zookeeper3]

I did ICU floating which included the ER. I loved it. It was uncomfortable at first because it took longer to get familiar with the staff, so I had to work harder at it. When I needed help, or was asking quite a few questions... I learned quickly to ask someone at the start of the shift to be my buddy. In return, I drew all their am labs and tried to help with their call lights no matter how busy I was. So this person didn't mind spending time on me because I reciprocated it.

A huge bonus is that you're ususally not in the same place two shifts in a row... had the screamer or the call buzzer queen... nope new assignment tonight! I learned more than I expected and I became more independent.

There are pluses and minuses... getting one buddy per shift is my best advice.

[ChristineN, BSN, RN]

If you are only doing surgical floors then it might not be a bad job for a new grad, I mean you would hopefully only see surgical pts and depending what sort of facility you're at that may only be 3-4 units.

Ask if your orientation is going to be on one unit or if it will be split between units. While spending the full orientation will make you feel super confident on that one floor, the downside is you will know nothing about the other floors.

[boisern84]

I float between cardiology units. Just arrive early, introduce yourself and let them know that you are there to help. Make sure to tell them that you are a new graduate so you may require some assistance. Try to familiarize yourself with the unit and where things are located (purpose of arriving early). After a couple of times on the floor you will become more comfortable.