Revisiting the Impact of Accreditation on Transition to Practice Programs: Findings From a Replication Analysis

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Administration

Background:

• Accreditation for transition to practice (TTP) programs is increasing nationwide.
• Limited research exists on the impact of TTP program recognition on healthcare organizations.
• Understanding the organizational value and sustainability factors of residency/fellowship accreditation is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To re-evaluate the effects of accreditation on TTP programs.
• To replicate a prior analysis of TTP program accreditation outcomes.
• To identify organizational value and sustainability measures associated with TTP accreditation.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective content analysis was performed.
• An administrative survey was distributed in 2019 to TTP programs accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Practice Transition Accreditation Program (PTAP).
• Directed content analysis compared current findings with a previous study.

Main Results:

• Responses were categorized using a coding matrix into themes and subthemes.
• All themes identified in the original analysis were replicated.
• New categories and subthemes emerged in the current analysis, indicating evolving perceptions or program characteristics.

Conclusions:

• Findings can inform nursing leaders, educators, and policymakers.
• The results support increased TTP program funding and recognition.
• Implications include engaging stakeholders for organizational improvement and advancing residency/fellowship science.