Staff Nurse and Licensed Practical Nurse Orientation

Central orientation for new registered nurses and licensed practical nurses at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics is an interactive two week long experience including computer classes, ergonomic training, mandatory topics such as infection control and safety, divisional orientation content, hands on simulation, time on the unit, equipment training, and other relevant topics specific to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

Further orientation to the division and unit where the nurse is working is arranged by the central orientation instructor, the educator of that division, and the nurse manager or the assistant nurse manager of the unit. Unit orientation may range from weeks to months depending on the unit and the experience level of the nurse. New graduate registered nurses also participate in the Nurse Residency Program during their first year.

Nursing Assistant Orientation

Central orientation for new nursing assistants is an interactive two-week long experience. It includes basic nursing skills such as bathing, bed-making, vital signs, ergonomic training, computer classes, mandatory topics such as infection control and safety, divisional orientation content, hands on simulation, time on the unit, equipment training and other relevant topics specific to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

Orientation to the division and unit in which the new nursing assistant is employed is arranged by the central orientation instructor, the divisional educator, and the unit nurse manager or the assistant nurse manager.

Nursing Unit Clerk Orientation

Orientation for a nursing unit clerk consists of classroom orientation, during which mandatory topics are covered. Computer training is another key component of orientation. The remainder of orientation time is spent on the unit.

Surgical Technician and Medical Assistant Orientation

Orientation for a surgical technician or medical assistant consists of classroom orientation during which mandatory topics are covered. Computer training is another aspect of orientation training. The remainder of the orientation time is spent on the unit.

Ergonomics

Ergonomics training consists of safety and proper use of body mechanics, demonstration and return demonstration on proper use of limited, extensive and total assist transfer and lift devices. Special considerations for bariatric patients and the use of beds with electronic steering capabilities are also covered.

EKG

EKG class consists of didactic content and interactive activities to prepare nurses in units using cardiac monitoring to identify normal and abnormal cardiac rhythms.

Orientation to a new position in the Department of Nursing Services and Patient Care usually comprises full-time hours. Central Nursing orientation classes are offered during daytime hours; unit time may vary. Benefit accruals and compensation are based on the percentage of the appointment.