General practices are busy and exciting places, but they can also be quite overwhelming for a new team member. Take time to provide a thorough orientation. It will benefit the learner and everyone else in the practice.
CLICK HERE to download a sample Orientation Checklist that will help your new learner to quickly get to know their way around the practice. Below are some of the key checks included.
History of practice and general structure
Introduction to all staff and their roles
Practice information sheet
Practice and procedures manual
Lunchroom facilities, toilets
Car parking arrangements
Fire procedure
Working hours, breaks, roster changes
Method and timing of wage payment
Policy and procedure for annual leave and sick leave
Registrar teaching – dedicated time blocked off
Policy on grievance procedures
Doctor’s trays – correspondence
Reporting incidents and adverse patients
General safety rules
Overview of medical and non-medical emergency procedures
Blood and body fluid precautions
Procedure for needle stick injury
Telephone
Fax, photocopier and scanner
Appointment system and booking procedures – preferences
Requests for reports, w/comp telephone advice (how to bill)
Procedure for X-rays and follow up
How to enter HIC items numbers and billing
Phone messages
Overview of practice philosophy, type of patients and areas of special interest care etc
Patient record systems and procedures
Computer – medical software program
Accreditation process and responsibilities
Local networks and professional support
Reference books/resources/online
Learning plan
Tour treatment room
Spills kit
Oxygen and emergency room equipment, PPE
Brief on steriliser/log book
Specific equipment: speculums, hyfrecator
Spirometry ECGs
Ultrasound
Pathology results protocol
Recall of clinically significant results
General recall and reminder systems
PAP result entry
RN appointments
Vaccinations, batch number records
Contaminated wastes, sharps disposal
Infection control/spills kit
Stocking of rooms
Drug cupboard – documentation required