I couldn't agree more with this observation. I truly believe that the OP and other new grads, including myself, when I graduated 4 years ago, were totally unprepared for bedside nursing when we graduated. Unfortunately, I didn't know that I was so unprepared. Like the OP, I did very well in school, but believe me, that meant nothing when I got to the floor. Our clinicals during school, were, for the most part, a waste of time. Instructors were more concerned with the required care plans we turned in, rather than finding opportunities for us to provide patient care. I never had more than one patient during any of my clinicals, so you can imagine how horrible my time management skills were.
nurseGi, you've gotten some great advice from the PPs and I hope that this new preceptor makes a difference for you. I went through 3 preceptors at my first job because I felt that they did not have great teaching skills. That is usually the problem. You can be a fantastic nurse, but not necessarily a great teacher. You first preceptor, and management too, seem to be out of touch with what nursing programs focus on these days, otherwise your preceptor would not have said what she did about you going to a good school and why don't you know such and such. I believe they had unrealistic expectations from you because of this.
It seems to me that they see real potential in you, and that's why they're extending your orientation. But I'd still be wary, and aggressively look for another job during this time.
If it doesn't work out, I'll paraphrase what a pp said "they didn't deserve you!!"
Good luck:)
