New Graduate Nurse Perception of Competence Compared to Nurse Leadership

New graduate nurses (NGN) face stress and challenges as they progress through the rigors of orientation and acclimation to the first year of clinical nursing. Health care organizations and academic institutions have significant roles in preparing competent entry-level nurses. However, previous research suggests that only 10% of hospital and health system nurse executives perceived their new graduate nurses as fully prepared to provide competent patient care. In this current research, we are examining the new graduate nurses’ perception of competence in comparison to the mid-level nurse leadership (preceptors and nurse managers) perception of new graduate nurse preparedness. Data is in the collection phase via an anonymous web-based questionnaire and will be completed by March15, 2015. The sample size is expected to be minimal 75 nursing leaders (nurse managers, charge nurses, and preceptors) and 75 new graduate nurses (novice nurses). Data analysis will be completed by beginning of April, 2015 and incorporate recommendations for healthcare organizations and academic institutions. These recommendations will focus on strategies for preceptor role modeling and training and nurse educators for preparation of nursing students in clinical experiences for entry into practice at the nursing program level. Results of this study will elucidate areas for both immediate and long-term implementation to improve new graduate nurse orientation programs and preceptor engagement.