An Integrative Review of Peer Mentorship Programs for Undergraduate Nursing Students

The purpose of this integrative review was to appraise and synthesize the evidence for the design, implementation, and evaluation of peer mentorship programs for undergraduate nursing students and to provide recommendations for future undergraduate nursing peer mentorship programs.

Using an integrative review methodology, quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies were searched using six electronic databases. Studies were screened, assessed for eligibility, and appraised with critical appraisal tools. Data were extracted and synthesized using thematic analysis. Eleven studies were included in the integrative review.

Appraisal demonstrated overall poor methodology. All programs were designed based on a perceived need expressed by faculty and students and involved a multistep process of implementation. Positive outcomes for nursing students were found through the use of peer mentorship programs; however, various challenges to program success were identified.

This review provides evidence that can be used to inform the design, implementation, and evaluation of future peer mentorship programs.