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The graduate nurse experience.
Kathy Casey1, Regina Fink, Mary Krugman
1University of Colorado Hospital, Campus Box A021-830, 4200 East 9th Avenue, Denver, CO 80262, USA.
The Journal of Nursing Administration
|June 11, 2004
Summary
Newly graduated nurses face significant stress and lack confidence for up to a year. Healthcare organizations need extended orientation and support programs to aid new nurse retention.
Area of Science:
- Nursing Education
- Healthcare Workforce Studies
- Professional Development
Background:
- Graduate nurses face a stressful transition from academia to clinical practice.
- High expectations for immediate competence can exacerbate stress.
- Understanding these challenges is crucial for improving nurse retention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify stresses and challenges faced by graduate nurses.
- To explore factors influencing graduate nurse retention.
- To inform the development of support systems for early-career nurses.
Main Methods:
- Study conducted across 6 acute care hospitals.
- Data collected during specific timed periods from cohorts of graduate nurses.
- Focus on identifying key stressors and confidence levels.
Main Results:
- Graduate nurses reported feeling unskilled, uncomfortable, and unconfident for up to one year post-hire.
- Identified significant challenges impacting the initial year of practice.
- Lack of confidence persisted longer than anticipated.
Conclusions:
- Extended orientation and robust support programs are essential.
- Healthcare organizations must address the prolonged adjustment period for new nurses.
- Facilitating successful entry into practice can enhance graduate nurse retention.