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I am wonder, for all the RNs who posted that your orientation was a "baptism by fire", looking back do you feel that was the optimal way to train? I'm reading a lot of posts and nurses have shared their stories but none of them have written anything relating that form of training to a positive outcome or even favorable over other more structured training period.

I have requested meetings with my clinical coordinator to gain a better understanding of their timeline for training to determine what particular milestones I am expected to hit and by what point in the orientation I am expected to achieve those milestones, something my preceptor was unable to answer for me. I have asked my clinical preceptor to provide feedback on my time management and asked for ways to improve. I have researched different methodologies of this orientation process to gain a better understanding of this tumultuous period and to gain a fuller understanding of some of the best and worst aspects of the new graduate transition. One thing I have not been able to find is a research based article discussing evidence based practices for the orientation process and transitioning from student nurse to staff nurse. If someone knows of any research out there, could you point me in the right direction as to where I could find it? Searching on the web has not provided quality researched based articles stating some of the best practice principles that provide a supportive work environment and a quality workplace orientation, two critical aspects that facilitate smooth transition. I believe that by gaining a better understanding this process, I would be able to understand what I should be and should not be expecting of the organization during this process. Thank you all again for your feedback!

I appreciate everyone's response thus far. It seems like this topic brings up considerable frustration on the part of the preceptor and the orientee. There clearly is a disconnect between expectation of what the role of the preceptor is for the orientee and the role of the orientee for the preceptor. I wonder if there is a way to bridge that gap and lesson some of the frustration.

I have concerns that the orientation period I am currently in is missing something vital to my success as an RN once off orientation. I am a new graduate nurse and I started my first job as an RN (no prior experience other than my senior preceptorship at another hospital) 6 weeks ago on a medical/surgical unit. The first week and a half, of my 12 week orientation, was spent in a classroom environment that did not include simulation. I spent one shift observing a preceptor's shift during a hectic night, and the next shift I passed medication. From then on, I was given a full patient load (5-6 patients) and told to ask my preceptor if I have any question. My preceptor has since spent her nights with me checking that my documentation in computer is complete and fielding any questions I may have. I anticipated a more gradual transition from student to novice nurse. If you could share with me how your institution handles the orientation process of RNs to the unit, tips on how to navigate this period, share your perspective what an adequate orientation should include, I would be extremely grateful! Thank you!

I have not heard back and I had an interview on 12/30.

Okay, I'll try not to ruminate on it to much over the weekend, but I'll be waiting with bated breath. :)

Congrats! Haven't heard anything yet. Guess that means I wasn't accepted. í ½í¸¢

Thank you. Good Luck!

I don't know

They said call. When was your interview?

Hi! It was good. The nurses conducting the interview were great. They really made an effort to reduce the stress that inherently comes with this process and I think it helped. I'm hopeful that we'll be notified soon. Fingers crossed :). Thanks for replying!

Hi all – I was wondering if anybody was offered a position in the 2015 medical residency program. I had a panel interview last week and was told decision soon.