A Charge Nurse Orientation and Development Program: An Evaluation.

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Healthcare Management
• Professional Development

Background:

• The transition from clinical nurse to charge nurse presents significant challenges.
• Effective support systems are crucial for successful role adaptation and leadership development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a formal charge nurse orientation and development program.
• To assess the program's impact on nurses' confidence in their charge nurse role.
• To examine the program's effect on patient responses to care and satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• A quasi-experimental design was employed to evaluate the program.
• The study focused on nurses transitioning into the charge nurse role.
• Patient outcomes and satisfaction were secondary measures assessed.

Main Results:

• Nurses reported increased confidence in their charge nurse role after completing the formal orientation program.
• The intervention led to a measurable increase in charge nurse visits to patients.
• Preliminary data suggests a positive impact on patient satisfaction.

Conclusions:

• Formal orientation and development programs can effectively enhance nurse confidence during role transitions.
• Investing in charge nurse development positively influences patient care interactions and satisfaction.
• Further research can explore long-term impacts and specific program components.