Development of an intravenous skills module for graduate nurses

Graduate nurses (GNs) are a major part of hospital recruitment. Forty-two percent of new hires are likely to be GNs. Many GNs feel ill prepared in intravenous (i.v.) catheter insertion and central line care. The purpose of this evidence-based practice project was to determine if an i.v. skills workshop would have a positive impact on GNs' comfort and skills. Casey-Fink Graduate Nurse Experience Survey data indicate that 29% of graduate nurse residents participating in the first cohort of this workshop list i.v. skills as most challenging. Postsurvey data showed that GN comfort level improved. Supporting the GN in this challenging transition by providing focused education and skills practice may alleviate this discomfort.