I'm in my 5th week in an ICU orientation. My preceptor turned around said that she thinks that I'm not ready for the ICU. I knew she was thinking that I was too slow.I was very slow, as I wasn't comfortable with all the different lines, PA, Central, arterial etc. But I read up on them and thanks to some of the people in this forum, I was able to get a better understanding. Anyway my manager is going to assign another preceptor and she said that she will asses me and if I'm making progress then they can extend my orientation by a couple of weeks.
I thought ICU would be a great place because I have really good patho and critical thinking skills. But I know I'm weak on technical skills.I have always done very well in theory(3.8GPA) but not as well in clinicals. Because I was always hesitant and unsure of myself, I always felt clumsy! But I was hoping these will come with practice and time.
I was wondering what I should do. Should I stick it out in the ICU or go to MedSurg? I could really use some advice.
Orientation at my hospital for ICU is 6 months or whatever the person needs, sometimes it's 3 months; sometimes it's 7 or 9. Safe practice is the key guide. While it is possible people may "milk" the system, it is more likely that they need the time or support.
Three months is usually reserved for people who have already been practicing nursing for some time. Working on one's own time while useful for the person who can do it, is not expected at my facility because not everyone can do it.
geminigirl11
17 Posts
Orientation at my hospital for ICU is 6 months or whatever the person needs, sometimes it's 3 months; sometimes it's 7 or 9. Safe practice is the key guide. While it is possible people may "milk" the system, it is more likely that they need the time or support.
Three months is usually reserved for people who have already been practicing nursing for some time. Working on one's own time while useful for the person who can do it, is not expected at my facility because not everyone can do it.
Good luck everyone!