Question for preceptors re: technical skills for new grad

What do you expect from a new grad concerning technical skills, i.e. identifying proper equipment, set up, use during interventions?

I feel that my technical skills are seriously lacking just through not having enough opportunities during clinicals. We also didn't have an open lab at all, otherwise I would have been in there every spare moment.

If you can, can you list those minimum skills you expect a new grad to have outside of venipuncture, which we can't do in my state.

Thank you in advance.
I don't get to precept (one of the downfalls of not having my RN yet)...but what you need to know as far as those kinds of skills will vary based on what area you're working in. Generally speaking, a willingness to get in there and learn as opportunities present themselves will serve you well. And let other nurses know you're on the lookout as well, not just your preceptor. Then ger in there, watch and help.Experienced nurses know (and should allow for) that nursing school doesn't teach you to be ready to hit the ground running. It teaches you to pass the NCLEX and gives you the basics to build upon in whatever area you end up in. Your willingness to seek out opportunities to learn and then hone skills specific to your area is what often seperates the good new grads from the minimally competent.

Not much technical expected. You learn those on the job. Bring your nurse assessment and critical thinking skills with you, and you will be ready to learn more.

Thank you for the responses. The reason I ask is because of something that happened the other day. A patient needed suction QUICKLY. I fumbled. My preceptor took over (rightly so), and I watched carefully so I would know the next time.My issue is that the first time I do something hands-on--even if I watched it before--I am slow as molasses, which isn't good for immediate patient care! The second time, I'm faster but I still have to think. The third time, it's natural. It's getting to that third time which is the problem for me. I want to use my preceptorship to get to that third time, and I would like to know those things I can tell my preceptor that I want to do. She's very good about presenting me opportunities, but she doesn't know what opportunities to present if I don't tell her. I won't have the chance to do everything, so I would like to do what is the basic minimum that RN preceptors expect. This only came to mind now because I'm finally comfortable in my environment. I will ask my own preceptor on Monday, but I would also like to get others' feedback.Another point: the critical thinking skills drilled into our head as necessary seemed very ethereal during clinicals. The reality of what is meant by CT skills is quite apparent to me now, and I am working on them. I have much more autonomy now than I did in regular clinicals, and it's testing my abilities. I welcome it, and it also scares the **** outta me.

It feels natural by your third time? You are a much faster learner than me!

Quote from ktlizIt feels natural by your third time? You are a much faster learner than me!

Quote from dudette10what do you expect from a new grad concerning technical skills, i.e. identifying proper equipment, set up, use during interventions?i feel that my technical skills are seriously lacking just through not having enough opportunities during clinicals. we also didn't have an open lab at all, otherwise i would have been in there every spare moment.if you can, can you list those minimum skills you expect a new grad to have outside of venipuncture, which we can't do in my state.thank you in advance.

from the replies here, it seems that new grad preceptors expect technical skills to be taught. that's good because i'm going to need it!i know will ask what might possibly be a "stupid question" if she's not absolutely sure as opposed to the orientee who will try to slide by doing what she thinks is probably right and ends up harming someone because of it.

Your not going to see everything during your preceptorship.........and THAT is okay. I have been a nurse a year and i still have 'first' experiences with products/devices. I ask my charge and they are great about showing/telling me what i need to know. The important thing is that you be willing to ask for help when you need it. even when you switch specialties you have to learn a lot of new things..... good luck!