Determining the best length of an OR orientation program

The length of orientation necessary for nurses new to the OR to obtain basic perioperative skills to ensure quality patient care is a major expense for health care facilities. The length of perioperative orientation programs varies greatly from institution to institution. Some last only one month, and others last from three months to one year. Educators usually decide the length of time based on tradition or outcomes; however, this may not be the best way to determine the length of an orientation program. A standardized time frame for perioperative orientation needs to become a reality. This article reports the results of a study that examined the effect orientation length had on RN compliance rates after nurses completed two different orientation programs and discusses the implications for developing orientation programs.