Orientation of New Graduate Registered Nurses Postpandemic: A Follow-up Study

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Management
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated nurse attrition, underscoring the critical need for robust new graduate nurse orientation programs.
• Existing literature offers limited guidance on effective orientation strategies for newly graduated nurses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the modifications in new graduate nurse orientation processes implemented in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To identify emerging opportunities and best practices in nurse onboarding and retention.

Main Methods:

• A survey was administered to nurse leaders to gather data on changes in orientation practices.
• The survey examined specific adjustments and perceived opportunities in orientation since the pandemic began.

Main Results:

• Nurse leaders are adopting more intentional orientation strategies, including regular check-ins and discussions on critical topics such as time management, conflict resolution, and workplace violence.
• There is an increased utilization of individualized orientation plans and a heightened emphasis on supporting nurse well-being and mental health.

Conclusions:

• Post-orientation support should be extended to facilitate long-term nurse retention.
• Collaboration with academic institutions is recommended to integrate essential content on stress management and wellness into nursing curricula.
• Development of innovative, cost-effective transition-to-practice programs is crucial to address the evolving needs of new nurses.