Job Satisfaction and Retention of an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Fellowship Program

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Workforce Development
• Advanced Practice Nursing

Background:

• High turnover rates among new Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) pose challenges to healthcare systems.
• Effective transition-to-practice programs are crucial for integrating novice APRNs into clinical roles.
• Job satisfaction and retention are key indicators of successful professional integration for APRNs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) fellowship program on job satisfaction.
• To assess the effect of the fellowship program on the retention rates of novice APRNs in their first year of practice.

Main Methods:

• The Misener Nurse Practitioner Job Satisfaction Scale was utilized.
• Nine novice APRNs at a Midwestern children's hospital participated in the study.
• Job satisfaction scores and retention data were collected post-program completion.

Main Results:

• The study measured job satisfaction scores and retention rates among participating APRNs.
• Preliminary results suggest a positive correlation between the fellowship program and key outcomes.
• The transition-to-practice program demonstrated a positive influence on the early career experiences of APRNs.

Conclusions:

• APRN fellowship programs serve as valuable bridges from academic preparation to independent professional practice.
• Implementing such transition programs can enhance job satisfaction and improve retention among newly graduated APRNs.
• These findings support the integration of structured fellowship programs to strengthen the APRN workforce.