Go to the head of the class: clinical educator role transition

Facing that first day as an educator who is new to the role or new to the institution can be daunting. An organized orientation program can facilitate educators' assimilation into their role and provide assistance in understanding their duties and responsibilities. Orientation should be individualized according to the learning needs of the new educator and should provide information on hospital expectations, structure, and environment. A part of the educator's orientation should focus on understanding educational processes and resources available within the new institution. A well-structured and well-designed orientation process facilitates the development of the clinical educators so they truly can go to the head of the class.