Transition to Practice Programs in Nursing: A Rapid Review

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Workforce Development
• Professional Transition

Background:

• Newly qualified nurses experience significant stress during the transition to registered nurse (RN) practice, often termed 'reality shock'.
• Transition to practice programs are designed to support these graduates, enhancing confidence, competence, professional adjustment, and retention.
• These programs aim to bridge the gap between academic preparation and the demands of clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and describe the benefits of transition to practice programs for newly graduated RNs.
• To evaluate the impact of these programs on healthcare workforce retention.
• To synthesize current evidence on the effectiveness of graduate nurse transition initiatives.

Main Methods:

• A rapid review methodology, guided by Cochrane Methods and the PRISMA statement, was employed.
• The review systematically searched and analyzed existing literature on transition to practice programs.
• Key outcomes assessed included graduate nurse outcomes and workforce retention rates.

Main Results:

• The literature presents mixed evidence regarding the overall value and benefits of graduate nurse transition programs.
• Findings indicate variability in program effectiveness for both the graduate nurses and the healthcare organizations.
• Inconsistencies were noted across different clinical settings, organizational structures, and preceptor/mentorship training.

Conclusions:

• The effectiveness of transition to practice programs is not uniformly established across all contexts.
• Variations in program duration and the extent of formalized support significantly influence outcomes.
• Further research is needed to clarify optimal program structures for enhancing graduate nurse success and retention.