What action should a newly licensed nurse take when asked to float to a labor and delivery unit?

The most appropriate action for a newly licensed nurse when asked to float to a labor and delivery unit is to request orientation on that unit, as this helps ensure safe practice and competency in an unfamiliar area. Floating to a highly specialized department like labor and delivery requires specific skills and knowledge in managing maternity and neonatal care, which a new nurse might not possess.

Requesting orientation indicates a proactive approach to patient safety and highlights the importance of proper preparation before providing care in a specialty area. This not only benefits the nurse by enhancing their knowledge and skills but also ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care in a critical area such as labor and delivery.

Accepting the assignment without concern disregards the importance of competency in clinical skills, which could lead to negative outcomes for patients if the nurse is unprepared. Floating to an adult medical-surgical unit instead may not align with the needs of the unit or the organization at that time. Informing the charge nurse of refusal to float does not foster teamwork and collaboration, nor does it support personal development in gaining experience in diverse nursing areas.