title: Preparing for the future: perianesthesia orientation.
abstract: A comprehensive orientation for RNs to perianesthesia nursing is essential for nurses who are new to the area because of the specialized skills and knowledge required. A massive restructuring of the existing orientation was undertaken to better prepare nurses for these challenges and to reduce costs. A competency-based orientation program was developed by the educator, the supervisors, and the preceptors. The concept of competency-based education is explored. The program development, implementation, and evaluation phases are highlighted. The results have been positive and rewarding with an improved outcome: a competent new perianesthesia care nurse.
authors.forename: A T
authors.initials: AT
authors.lastname: Speers
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Ziolkowski
mesh_terms: D003162:Competency-Based Education / Q000458:organization & administration*; D004509:Education, Nursing, Continuing / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D007318:Inservice Training / Q000458:organization & administration*; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000193:education*; D016528:Postanesthesia Nursing / Q000193:education*; D016730:Program Development; D015397:Program Evaluation