Integrating a Career Planning and Development Program into the Baccalaureate Nursing Curriculum. Part II. Outcomes...

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Professional Development
• Career Resilience

Background:

• New graduate nurses (NGNs) face significant challenges transitioning into practice, leading to high attrition rates.
• Existing literature highlights the difficulties of this transition but offers limited strategies within academic programs.
• Proactive preparation during nursing education is crucial for NGN success and retention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of a career planning and development (CPD) program on baccalaureate nursing students.
• To assess the influence of the CPD program on career resilience at 12 months post-graduation for NGNs.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal intervention study design was employed.
• Baccalaureate nursing students participated in a structured, curriculum-based CPD program.
• Career resilience was measured in students and NGNs at specified intervals.

Main Results:

• The CPD program positively influenced the development of career resilience in nursing students.
• This enhanced resilience persisted at 12 months post-graduation among NGNs.
• Findings indicate a beneficial effect of structured CPD on the NGN transition.

Conclusions:

• Curriculum-based career planning and development (CPD) opportunities should be integrated into nursing academic programs.
• CPD enhances student outcomes and supports NGNs during their critical transition period.
• Implementing CPD strategies can improve NGN retention and professional longevity.