Using new careers in nursing research findings to develop an evidence-based pre-entry immersion program.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Student Retention
• Academic Support Programs

Background:

• New Careers In Nursing (NCIN) data indicated pre-entry immersion programs (PIPs) correlate with higher nursing student retention and graduation rates.
• NCIN findings informed the development of The Bridge to Nursing Success Program (Bridge).

Purpose of the Study:

• Describe NCIN Scholarship Program findings regarding PIPs.
• Detail the development and outcomes of The Bridge to Nursing Success Program.
• Report on the effectiveness of the Bridge Program for accelerated nursing students.

Main Methods:

• The Bridge Program, a nine-day pre-immersion program (PIP), was implemented for accelerated nursing students.
• Two cohorts totaling 44 students participated in face-to-face classes and discussions.
• Post-program surveys assessed the perceived helpfulness of the program content.

Main Results:

• Student evaluations showed a highly positive response to the Bridge Program.
• Bridge participants demonstrated a lower likelihood of failing courses in the first semester.
• Bridge participants were six times more likely to succeed in the pathophysiology course compared to non-participants.

Conclusions:

• The study presents an evidence-based PIP model for accelerated nursing programs, offering academic support and coping strategies.
• Further long-term follow-up is needed to determine the program's impact on overall graduation persistence.