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Monday, November 2, 2009: 2:00 PM
Learning Objective 1: to describe the planning, implementation and research associated with a collaborative community initiative designed to engage new nurses as they transition into professional practice.
Learning Objective 2: to discuss the findings and outcomes related to 3 years of the collaborative project evaluative research and reflect on potential nursing education and practice implications
There are challenges in the nursing workforce that stem from the current nursing shortage and its projected intensification, as well as, the necessary replacement of seasoned nurses as they reach the age of retirement. Exacerbating these challenges are the discontent, limited practice expertise and lack of confidence expressed by new graduate nurses as they transition from the structure of nursing education to the often chaotic environments of care. In South Florida, a collaborative community project was developed to address these critical issues: supporting novice nurses’ transition from the education to the practice setting, and developing the next generation of nurse leaders. Thus far, the project, the Novice Nurse Leadership Institute, engaged 13 community healthcare organizations and their nurse leaders, 4 educational institutions and 81 novice nurses. This presentation reviews the planning steps, curriculum, implementation, and findings for the initial 3 years of the project. Qualitative and quantitative evaluative research methods are incorporated into the community project. Data analysis suggests providing support and professional development contributes to improved retention, increased confidence, workplace enhancements and leadership development. Ultimately the quality and safety of care provided to patients in our community is enhanced and fiscal impact noted. Implications for nursing education, practice and lessons learned are offered.