Implementing a Mentorship Program for New Nurses During a Pandemic.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Management
• Pandemic Response

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic created unprecedented challenges for healthcare systems.
• New registered nurses (RNs) faced increased stress and rapid process changes in medical-surgical units.
• A need for enhanced support systems for newly hired RNs was identified.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the implementation of an evidence-based mentoring program for new RNs.
• To provide a support system for new RNs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To improve nurse retention in medical-surgical units.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of an evidence-based mentoring program.
• Focus on new registered nurses (RNs) in medical-surgical units.
• Program supported by hospital nursing leadership during the pandemic.

Main Results:

• The program provided a crucial support system for new RNs.
• It addressed the challenges posed by rapid process changes during the pandemic.
• The initiative aimed to bolster nurse retention rates.

Conclusions:

• Evidence-based mentoring is vital for supporting new nurses.
• Leadership support is key to successful program implementation during crises.
• Such programs can enhance nurse retention in challenging healthcare environments.