VA orientation schedule

[1gr8trnstudent, ADN, BSN, RN]

Hello,

I am wondering if anyone who started as a new grad at the VA can give some insight as to what their orientation schedule looked like? I understand its different as every VA. Just want a general overview. Is it Mon to Friday classroom for a specific number of weeks? Or is it some classroom and then unit training? Any information is greatly appreciated! Thanks

[OUxPhys, BSN, RN]

When I was hired I came from an outside facility. Back then it was 3 weeks. They have since cut it down to 2 weeks. Then, after those 2 weeks you go to your floor for floor orientation. I'm not sure what the length of a new grad orientation is but Id imagine it's probably at least 12 weeks. I do know that once you are out you dont float for 1 year and I think you have to wait either 6 months or a year before you can be charge (at least at my VA).

[1gr8trnstudent, ADN, BSN, RN]

1 hour ago, OUxPhys said:

When I was hired I came from an outside facility. Back then it was 3 weeks. They have since cut it down to 2 weeks. Then, after those 2 weeks you go to your floor for floor orientation. I'm not sure what the length of a new grad orientation is but Id imagine it's probably at least 12 weeks. I do know that once you are out you dont float for 1 year and I think you have to wait either 6 months or a year before you can be charge (at least at my VA).

Thank you for the response. It's helpful

[kittymold, ASN, BSN, RN]

New grad orientation at my VA is 1 year. For the first year your cohort is under the education department and assignments will be made to units according to strengths as well as preference.

[1gr8trnstudent, ADN, BSN, RN]

34 minutes ago, kittymulv said:

New grad orientation at my VA is 1 year. For the first year your cohort is under the education department and assignments will be made to units according to strengths as well as preference.

Thanks for the info. Do you know if the schedule for orientation was based o the preceptor and how many hours per week?

[kittymold, ASN, BSN, RN]

New grad programs are vastyl different across the VA. At mine, you're not with a preceptor the first year, you're assigned under education. It starts 730-1600 and 40 hrs/week. I am unsure to how long that lasts but if you contact your local VA education department they should be able to assist you.

[TeamRNs]

Does anyone know how they are currently handling the VA orientations now at the present time due to the Covid Situation? Is there a delay with hiring or are they still requiring that portion of the hiring process?

[Val.RN, ADN, BSN]

There are actually hiring faster during COVID. It can take 2 to 3 months or less. I heard stories people were brought on board in a matter of days. Good luck.