Competency Development for E-Mentors of Undergraduate Nursing Students Using E-Delphi Method.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Digital Health
• Mentorship Programs

Background:

• Addressing the national nursing shortage requires a robust supply of registered nurses graduating from undergraduate programs.
• Mentorship in higher education is crucial for recruiting and retaining nursing students.
• E-mentoring offers an innovative strategy to enhance undergraduate nursing graduation rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop E-Mentor Competencies (EMCs) for mentors guiding undergraduate nursing students.
• To achieve expert consensus on EMCs using e-Delphi methodology.

Main Methods:

• A subject matter expert group developed an EMC survey.
• The survey was electronically distributed to an expert participant group.
• Iterative survey rounds with a 5-point Likert scale were used to reach consensus on competency importance and relevance.

Main Results:

• Sixteen EMCs were identified and categorized into knowledge, skill, or attitude.
• The study identified 16 essential competencies for e-mentors of undergraduate nursing students.
• Top-ranked competencies included cultural competence (4.88), relationship building (4.71), and empathy and support (4.55).

Conclusions:

• Consensus on EMCs establishes a standard for e-mentorship knowledge, skills, and attitudes.
• These EMCs can enhance the e-mentoring experience for both students and mentors.
• The findings support the development and improvement of e-mentor programs to aid future nursing professionals.