505

Learning Objective #1: Identify components of evidenced based mentoring programs practices

Learning Objective #2: Discuss the importance of evidenced based role transition programs in nursing

---

This paper describes the development and implementation of an evidenced based e-mentoring program designed to facilitate role transition, retention, and leadership development. Having the support and guidance of mentors assists new graduates in the socialization to their environment. In addition, mentors guide the protégés and facilitate learning of the skills that are necessary to be fluent in the new workplace culture. Although face-to-face mentoring programs are considered ideal, nursing presents many of the obstacles that limit their success including shift and weekend work. With electronic communication, mentors and protégés can communicate without limitations of time and geography. We developed our e-mentoring program with attention to the identified best practices in mentoring which include a needs assessment, training for participants, and programmatic structure. The purpose of a mentoring program is to provide the support and guidance needed by the new comers. What better way to identify the support and guidance new graduates need, then by asking them informally or formally through needs assessment? Using focus groups, new graduates identified themes that were important in their role transition. This data formed the basis in the development of a program that can truly meets the immediate and timely needs of the new graduates. By learning the expectations of the new graduates, realistic outcomes for the protégés were identified. In addition, this information provided a foundation for the relationship between the protégés and their-mentors, which allowed for long term problem solving and support. Individuals who have mentors report increased satisfaction and an easier time with socialization to a profession. There are intangible benefits to the mentors as well. By working with protégés, mentors are able to regain the excitement about their chosen profession. To reap these rewards, basing the design of these programs according to evidenced based good practices is essential.