Role transition from registered nurse to nurse practitioner in Jamaica

A nurse practitioner (NP) is defined as having comprehensive knowledge to diagnose and treat health conditions. When a registered nurse (RN) transitions to the NP role, several challenges may arise.

This study aimed to determine the role transition process from an RN to NP and the factors that contribute to a successful or unsuccessful transition.

This quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study employed census sampling of 51 nurse practitioners. Data were collected using the Novice Nurse Practitioner Role Transition (NNPRT) scale and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

The response rate was 72.5% (37). Receiving a formal orientation, 67.6% (25) reported. More than half of the participants (64.9%; 24) reported receiving mentorship. Spearman rho coefficient test indicated a significant, moderate positive relationship between NNPRT scale scores and prior years as an RN (rs = 0.18), formal orientation (rs = 0.42), and mentorship (rs = 0.24-0.58).

Formal orientation and specific aspects of mentorship contributed to a successful role transition. Further investigation of other variables is necessary to determine what influences successful or unsuccessful role transitions. Results also indicated that a documented transition program may exist; however, it requires improvement or the implementation of a new role transition program.

These findings highlight the need for coordinated practice, educational, and policy initiatives to implement standardized NP transition programs with mentorship, as organizational support is central to a successful role transition.