Learning Objective #1: Learn about an innovative support program for graduates

Learning Objective #2: Discuss the data analysis in relation to the NWI administered to the participants

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Graduate nurses enter pediatric nursing when the nursing shortage is critical; they are expected to have expertise and skills in pediatric nursing. There is dearth of documentation about graduates in nurturing and supportive environments, growing professionally with high retention. Messmer (2004) found one hour spent in a psychiatric CNS debriefing group session facilitated novice to proficiency. Purpose was to investigate impact of support programs for graduates. Methodology: Comparative research design with post program survey addressed research questions: 1) determine if Support Groups increase satisfaction of work environment and 2) enhance retention of nurses. Intervention was a nurse support program facilitated by psychiatric department. King's (1981) Transaction concept provided framework. Aiken (2000) Nursing Work Index Revised (NWI-R) was administered to graduates completing the program. Results: Of 33 participants, 82%- female; 76%-less 28 years; 76% - BSN degrees; 61% Hispanic, 27% Caucasian, 9% Asian Pacific Islanders, 3% Afro-Americans; 42% - ICU, 30% Med-Surg. Compared to a year prior 39% -increase in time spent with patients; 27% increase in time spent documenting patient care while 24% felt “Quality of Care” better, 74% felt same, 2% worse; 63.0% recommended nursing to friends/colleagues. Principal components factor analysis- 51 NWI items revealed single factor, accounting for 43.09% variance. Cronbach's alpha- .970; MBI scale showed one factor Cronbach's alpha- .90. One-way ANOVA compared MBI and NWI scales across demographics, social variables and attendance at support programs. Significant association observed between satisfaction with position and NWI. Higher perceived work satisfaction, lower the burnout (F = 21.71; df = 1, 30; p = .000). Comments, “I feel general overall situation for nurses has improved”. “Nursing administration listens to suggestions” “We will be better nurses and mentors for others”. This study demonstrates value of Nurse Support groups, promoting socialization, improving job satisfaction, increasing retention/recruitment while decreasing job stress for graduates.