An Educational Program for New Graduate Nurses and Experienced Nurses as Mentors at an Academic Medical Center

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Workforce Development
• Mentorship Programs

Background:

• High turnover rates among new nurses (approximately 70% leave within 3 years) pose a significant challenge to healthcare systems.
• Effective mentorship is crucial for supporting novice nurses during their critical early career stages.
• The Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses Mentor Program provides a framework for structured mentorship initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a mentorship program on new nurse mentees and their mentors.
• To assess changes in job satisfaction among new nurse mentees.
• To determine the effect of the program on mentors' self-perceived mentorship behaviors and confidence.

Main Methods:

• A mentorship program was implemented for a cohort of new nurse mentees and experienced mentors.
• Data were collected using validated instruments: Mentor Self-Assessment, Mentoring Program Satisfaction, and the Job Satisfaction Scale.
• Pre- and post-program assessments were conducted to measure changes in key outcomes.

Main Results:

• Mentees (N=6) demonstrated a statistically significant increase in job satisfaction following program participation (t=-3.53, p=.02).
• Mentors (N=6) reported enhanced experience and confidence in performing mentorship behaviors post-program.
• Mentees expressed high levels of satisfaction with the overall mentorship program experience.

Conclusions:

• Mentorship programs can positively impact new nurse job satisfaction and retention.
• Structured mentorship effectively develops the skills and confidence of nurse mentors.
• Investing in mentorship programs is a viable strategy for supporting the early-career nursing workforce.