Developing an orientation program for assistive personnel in the ICU

Assistive personnel are being used in intensive care unit (ICU) settings in response to the demand for more cost-effective nursing care. Nurse managers, educators, and advanced practice nurses must address the unique orientation needs of these workers. A comprehensive, competency-based orientation program for assistive personnel can help the ICU technician be successful. Despite the multitude of assistive personnel being used in the critical care settings, little information is available regarding the development of an orientation program for ICU technicians. This article discusses one ICU's experience in developing an orientation program for their ICU technicians.