Published Oct 20, 2021
2ndChance
62 Posts
Hi, All.
I'm leaving for my first contract in a few days and am just asking for last-minute words of wisdom/advice from any and all travelers out there. This is my first travel gig, so I'm nervous.
Thanks a lot,
2ndchance
NedRN
1 Article; 5,782 Posts
What are your concerns?
I think my biggest concern is the extremely short orientation time. How long does it usually take to get in the swing of things? This will be a whole new charting system, etc. When do you start feeling comfortable?
I personally don't feel efficient until my third month. But I'm quite functional after a couple of weeks. Mind you, the operating room takes a lot longer than most specialties.
Most orientations cover EMR for better part of two days, then you will shadow a nurse for a day or two who will help shortcut your charting. Largely you don't need to stress out the first week at all. I say that, but I know it is hard to do. Even though I know well that most first day orientations are pure fluff, I don't sleep well the night before.