Thriving with several preceptors

[Dempather, RN]

I was told that I'd end up having a couple different preceptors throughout orientation. What are some ways to make the most of being exposed to so many learning styles?

[flowerchick]

I don't have a ton of advice, but I can tell you what I've done. I have had 3 preceptors so far, spent the bulk of my time with one, but still spent shifts with others. Tomorrow I start nights, so I will have my 4th and by the end of September, end of orientation, I will have had a total of 5 preceptors.

When I'm with someone new at the beginning of my shift, I ask them how they like to work with orientees. Some have wanted me to take 3/5 of the load and do everything and check everything, others (esp the one I was with all the time) would have me take the whole load of 5 pts and they would act as my 'safety net' by keeping up with orders, hanging an IV, getting D/C papers, admission info, etc. if I got behind. There are pros and cons of both ways, but I never said anything remotely negative or even comparative to any of the preceptors, even if I didn't entirely care for the way one person did something. I have been fortunate that all the personalities (so far) that I've encountered have been pleasant, so I haven't had any issues. I actually like working with different people because you get to see different assessment, organizational and communication styles then pick and choose what works best for you.

Just my experience, good luck to you!

[Hoozdo, ADN]

I had a 6 month orientation in ICU and I swear, I worked with every nurse on my unit as a preceptor. My original preceptor went out with a back injury - so I ended up working with whoever was there that day for months.

Actually, I sort of enjoyed that mode. It gave me a chance to observe different styles and pick and choose what worked best for me in my nursing practice. Try to view different preceptors as an advantage and not a disadvantage.

Good luck and welcome to floor nursing :wink2: