The development of a job description and orientation program

A health care institution in the mid-Atlantic region developed a new position for the registered nurse to assist in patient-focused, cost-effective care delivery in the acute care setting. The institution's patient care coordinator position was converted from an administrative role to a primary nurse role. During the new role implementation, there was no formal orientation and description of the role. Lack of description led to misunderstanding of the role and differentiation and development of the role from unit to unit. After utilizing several methods and using Benner's application of the Dreyfus model of skill acquisition as a theoretical framework, a job description and a foundation for the orientation program were developed for the role. After completion of the project, it was made evident that role development and implementation involves extensive planning. It is recommended that a job description and orientation program not be developed during the pilot phase of a role.