Newly qualified nurses--experiences of interaction with members of a community of practice

To explore newly qualified nurses' (NQN) interaction with members of community of practice (CoP) and how it affects their participation in the CoP.

The entry of NQNs into the health care service is problematic which can result in NQNs leaving the profession within the first years of their career. Studies indicate that interaction between NQNs and their colleagues has an important influence of the way in which the NQNs experience their participation in the community of practice.

Nine NQNs participated in the study. The data collection took place six months after graduating and the data were generated by participant observation and individual interview. The data were analysed inspired by Ricoeur's interpretation theory.

Most of the participants expressed satisfaction in their job. They were employed in CoPs characterised by dialogue and with interest in NQNs as a professional as well as a private person. Participants who expressed some dissatisfaction in their job situation were employed in CoPs with less dialogue and with less interest in NQN. Uncertainty about their own capacity and less professional discussions results in NQNs repeatedly asking for specific answer to their questions.

Mutual social and professional interest and acceptance increased NQNs' experience of being valued members of the CoP. Higher levels of dialogue and cohesion within the CoP corresponded with more active participation by NQNs and gave them a greater sense of security. Relevance for Clinical Practice NQNs' participation in a COP is influenced by the extent to which they are included in both professional and social interactions and afforded the opportunity to contribute with knowledge and experience from their nursing studies. Furthermore, the study indicates that NQNs' experience of social cohesion within the community appears to increase their professional performance.