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Internationally educated nurses' experiences with an integrated bridge program
Lynda Atack1, Edward V Cruz, Janet Maher
1Centennial College, Scarborough, Ontario, Canada. latack@centennialcollege.ca
Background:
Countries around the world are experiencing a current and projected ongoing shortage of nurses. Internationally educated nurses are an underused, valuable human resource that could reduce the nursing shortage. A bridge program, with several innovations bundled into one program, was developed specifically to meet the needs of internationally educated nurses.
Methods:
A qualitative study using interviews was conducted with internationally educated nurses. Data were collected in the first semester, at the end of the program, and after nurses started work.
Results:
Although knowledge of the health care system is critical, an understanding of the adopted country's educational philosophy is also important. Occupation-specific language training and ample clinical time are essential for program success and for helping participants to secure employment.
Conclusion:
"One-stop shopping" bridge programs that provide a range of curricular supports for internationally educated nurses are essential to support this pool of highly skilled nurses in preparing for practice in their new home.
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