Developing a Formal Mentorship Program for New Graduate Pediatric Nurse Practitioners: Supporting Role Transition.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Advanced Practice Nursing
• Healthcare Professional Development

Background:

• New graduate nurse practitioners (NPs) face significant role transition challenges from registered nurse (RN) to NP.
• A formal, evidence-based mentorship program was developed to support this transition for pediatric NPs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a structured mentorship program for new graduate pediatric NPs.
• To identify key areas of support and challenges during the NP role transition.

Main Methods:

• A 1-year structured mentorship program was implemented for new graduate pediatric NPs.
• Data were collected at baseline and at 3, 6, and 12 months using validated surveys (Novice Nurse Practitioner Role Transition Scale, adapted S.C.O.R.E. survey).
• Self-reflection questions and meeting notes were used for qualitative analysis.

Main Results:

• Thirty mentees participated in the mentorship program.
• The majority of mentors and mentees perceived the mentoring relationship as successful.
• Primary barriers included time constraints and scheduling conflicts; common discussion topics were work-life balance, clinical practice, and professional development.

Conclusions:

• Formal mentorship programs provide valuable support for new graduate NPs transitioning into practice.
• Addressing time and scheduling barriers can optimize the effectiveness of NP mentorship programs.