Mentorship programs provided for new nurses: A systematic review

The early years of professional practice are a stressful and challenging period for new nurses. Mentorship programs are widely implemented to support their transition and reduce turnover rates.

This study systematically reviews mentorship programs for new nurses, examining their effects, challenges, and implementation processes.

Systematic review.

Studies published in English between January 1, 2019, and September 30, 2024, were retrieved from EBSCO, Science Direct and SCOPUS databases.

Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies focusing on mentorship programs for new nurses were included.

Study selection and data extraction were performed independently by three researchers. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) 2018.

A total of 7 studies met the inclusion criteria, with sample sizes ranging from 3 to 1078 participants. The mentorship programs varied in duration from 8 weeks to 2 years. The findings indicate that mentorship programs positively impact self-efficacy, self-confidence, stress management, job satisfaction, retention rates, professional communication, problem-solving, program effectiveness, and social support.

Mentorship programs facilitate the transition into practice by improving job satisfaction, retention, and professional skills. However, variations in program structure and implementation highlight the need for standardized frameworks.

Not registered.