Expectations and experiences of recently recruited overseas qualified nurses in Australia

The overseas qualified nurse (OQN) has become an important part of the Australian nursing workforce. Efforts to enhance their adjustment to work and life in Australia have been recommended in the literature. This study examines the experiences and needs of a group of OQNs at a major metropolitan tertiary referral hospital in Australia. Using a descriptive survey, 56 nurses reported their experiences with three major themes emerging, career and lifestyle opportunities, differences in practice and homesickness. Nurses from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds reported not being employed in their chosen specialty and rating the utility of ward and hospital orientations more positively when compared to English speaking background nurses. From the study results an organisational and a personal approach has been undertaken to aid in the adjustment of OQNs into the nursing workforce.