Leader perspectives on the "experience-complexity gap": Recommendations to fortify the nursing workforce

Reported workforce shifts, characterized as the "experience-complexity gap," threaten nurses' ability to deliver safe, high-quality care. Addressing this threat requires a robust understanding of the current state, which leaders in practice settings are well-positioned to elucidate.

Describe practice leaders' perceptions of (a) new-to-practice nurses' (NTPNs) ability to practice competently, (b) the current composition of nursing teams, and (c) the impact of team composition on quality and safety, experienced nurses, and leaders.

A web-based survey was administered to practice leaders across the country. Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and conventional content analysis.

Approximately 45% of respondents believe NTPNs practice competently. Specific skills gaps, measures to support NTPNs, the strain placed on experienced nurses to maintain the standard of care, generational conflict, and perceived risks to quality and safety are described.

These findings should inform academic and practice leaders' partnered efforts to implement competency-based education.