Search

Aim: To analyse nurses' perceptions of the impact of an extended transition programme on key dimensions of care delivery 1-6 years after graduation. The dimensions included decision-making, communication, care management, system integration and commitment., Background: Health care employers in Ontario, Canada, can apply for government funding to support an extended transition programme for new graduate nurses that includes orientation and mentorship., Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used. Nurses who participated in the transition programme were compared with nurses who did not. A survey was administered to a convenience sample of 2369 nurses., Results: There were statistically significant differences between the two groups. Nurses in the transition programme had higher mean scores on the key dimensions of care delivery. Results were confirmed when controlling for length of time since graduation., Conclusion: Extended transition benefits new graduate nurses. It has a lasting effect over time and impacts key dimensions of care delivery. It can also enhance workforce integration and reduce turnover., Implications for Nursing Management: Responding to the needs of new graduate nurses has potential long-term advantages for health care organisations and can influence both quality and delivery of care., (© 2018 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Clinical work demands can overwhelm new graduate nurses (NGNs) and cause significant stress as they begin practice in their first place of employment. The authors examine the impact of a government-supported extended orientation and mentorship program intended to facilitate the transition of NGNs to professional practice. A longitudinal trend study was conducted over 3 years of the program (2008, 2009, and 2010). In each year, 1 third of surveyed NGNs and over 3 quarters of surveyed employers responded. The researchers conducted 21 focus groups with 106 health-care organizations, 53 interviews with NGNs, and 15 interviews with nurse mentors from the frontline staff. The findings indicate that the program is instrumental in developing NGNs' ability to practise independently. Mentorship increased the NGNs' confidence and allowed them to make clinical decisions in a safe, protected environment. The program provided vital support and helped NGNs move from students to practising nurses.