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Discussion

Orientation question

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Hi there! I have 6 months experience on a med surg floor. I really felt the orientation was inadequate but eventually once on my own I figured it out, it was trial by fire. But after 6 months I bailed and got a more stable job. I left and have been working in a small medical clinic for about a year. I am hoping to go back to the hospital setting and have an interview. I really want to give this another shot.

How much orientation should I expect? I am not a new grad, but having been out of the hospital game for almost a year, I am concerned about all the skills I have not been using. I am afraid I may have forgotten everything about floor nursing.

How do I convey in the interview that I want a proper orientation without making them nervous about hiring me?

I just want to be sure that I don't end up thrown to the wolves again!

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    Ask what their orientation entails and the duration. This will allow you to get answers without making it seem as though you doubt your skills or ability to be able to do hospital nursing. Also, be prepared to answer the question "Why did you leave hospital nursing in the past?" because I'm sure they will be asking that question. They will likely also ask why you want to leave your current position.

    Good luck in your interview!

    Amanda

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    • Author
    • Experts
    Ask what their orientation entails and the duration. This will allow you to get answers without making it seem as though you doubt your skills or ability to be able to do hospital nursing. Also, be prepared to answer the question "Why did you leave hospital nursing in the past?" because I'm sure they will be asking that question. They will likely also ask why you want to leave your current position.

    Good luck in your interview!

    Amanda

    I really want to give hospital nursing another shot. I am afraid about answering why I left the hospital first time. Any tips on smoothing that over would be appreciated. Honestly, the ratio of 10 patients to 1 nurse was too much for me as a new grad, the staffing was dangerous. But I know you are not supposed to say anything negative about a former job. Any advice? I think with a managable patient load I can do it.

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    I personally don't see anything wrong with saying (diplomatically) that you felt you needed more orientation as a new grad. I'd rather have a nurse who felt she needed more orientation than one of those who thinks they know everything right away - those are the scary folks. Wanting adequate training is a GOOD thing, in my opinion!

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    I have heard similar nurse patient ratios for new grads from some of my former colleagues, i.e. 7-10 patients per nurse. It looks like this is happening in alot of places.

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