New LVN orientation 2 days!

[mlpr]

Recently got hired at a SNF facility in my area and while I am stoked to be starting my nursing career, I am so worried to know that I will be only oriented for 2 full days. It also does not also help that I've been out of school for nearly 4 years! Is that normally how short orientations are nowadays? What should I expect? Is it okay if I ask for more orientation/shadowing? I think this SNF is severely short staffed though so I doubt it! My anxiety levels are high right now.

[Scottishtape]

It's really facility dependent. I've worked SNFs that had great orientations (4 weeks), and others where I've had one day, and was thrown on the floor.

What is important is that you recognize how well prepared you feel to deliver safe and effective patient care. If you feel that the 2 days of orientation are just not sufficient for you, then you definitely need to self-advocate and speak with management to address that. It's always ok to ask for more orientation if you don't feel ready. A facility that denies that is a big red flag, and one you should probably run very fast away from. That's just my opinion of course.

Should something happen, the BON or the facility most likely won't care that you only got 2 days of orientation. Part of protecting your license and your patients is making sure you are competent for the care you agree to give.

Good luck!