We require them to complete the same content in our learning management system as we do our core team members. In addition, they are required to complete the same written orientation documents, just within a much shorter time frame. Luckily, we've had few travelers in our ambulatory clinics. The ones we have had were expected to complete modules and the competency document within the first week. This does mean we are doing some simulation or role playing to get some of the competencies completed for lower volume skills, and also keeping the nursing supervisor aware of any additional needs they might have (ex: They need to be checked off on accessing an implanted port but needs to do hands-on demonstration for that). For the inpatient side (where a majority of the travelers are located) they were also allowed to test out of the electronic health record training if they had used the same program elsewhere (they'd learn the items that had been adapted for us during their shift orientation).
Having them complete the same documents and modules ensures that there is a consistent standard for legal and regulatory purposes. When I was on the inpatient side, there was an interview with the traveler prior to bringing them in, after some miscommunication on skills. For example, we had a nurse who responded yes when asked if she had cared for monitored patients before, but she was not able to read rhythm strips (once she was on-site and didn't pass a rhythm assessment she shared that there were monitor techs who read the strips for them). Our inpatient side also utilizes an assessment program and they've started using that prior to the traveler moving. This way several items are already completed (math and rhythm assessments, population specific assessment).
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Andrea Kelly MSN,RN,NPD-BC
Director, Population Health
Vidant Medical Group
Greenville NC
(252)847-3930
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Original Message:
Sent: 08-23-2022 15:16
From: Danielle Smith
Subject: Onboarding of Traveling RNs and MAs
We are using travelers in our clinics and I am interested in learning what onboarding/training/orientation other organizations do with "experienced" staff new to your organization. Thanks for sharing!
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Danielle Smith MSN, RN, CNL
Clinical Practice Leader, Primary Care
dsmith2@childrenswi.org
Children's Wisconsin
Milwaukee, WI
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