Preparing Nurse Practitioner Graduates for the Transition to Practice.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Advanced Practice Nursing
• Professional Development

Background:

• Nurse practitioner (NP) students require support transitioning from education to practice.
• Core competencies are met before graduation, but post-graduation navigation of certification, licensure, and job searching presents challenges.
• A statewide virtual conference was developed to aid this critical transition period.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide essential information and support for nurse practitioner students transitioning into advanced practice roles.
• To address learning needs not fully covered in current educational programs.
• To facilitate professional role development and job-seeking skills.

Main Methods:

• A statewide virtual conference was organized.
• Content included professional role development, resume writing, interviewing, licensure, certification, and contract negotiation.
• Information was delivered by expert panelists.

Main Results:

• 92% of participants could describe NP practice and licensure requirements.
• 90% of attendees valued the insights provided by panelists.
• 88% of students felt better prepared to negotiate a contract.

Conclusions:

• Educational programs often lack sufficient time for transition-to-practice needs.
• Partnerships between faculties and professional organizations offer an innovative solution.
• Virtual conferences are a cost-effective method for delivering essential transition support, as demonstrated during the pandemic.