Transitioning international nurses: an outlined evidence-based program for acute care settings

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Healthcare Management
• International Nursing

Background:

• International nurses face significant transitional challenges in new healthcare environments.
• Existing transition programs in the United States are insufficient to meet these unique needs.
• The integration of foreign-educated nurses into domestic healthcare systems requires targeted support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline an evidence-based, employer-sponsored transition program for newly arrived international nurses.
• To address the specific needs of international nurses working in unfamiliar healthcare systems.
• To provide a framework for regulatory agencies and employers to support international nurse integration.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized evidence on the transitional challenges of international nurses.
• Reviewed existing transition programs within the United States.
• Developed a new, evidence-based transition program tailored for international nurses.

Main Results:

• An employer-based transition program designed for international nurses has been outlined.
• The program addresses the unique needs of nurses from foreign healthcare environments.
• Implications for regulatory bodies, employers, and nurses are discussed in national and international contexts.

Conclusions:

• The transition of international nurses is a critical regulatory issue.
• The proposed transition program is essential for successful integration.
• Mandatory transition programs for international nurses are anticipated in the US, mirroring practices in the UK and Australia.