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Learning Objective 1: The learner will be able to: describe the mentoring pilot program, goals and structure.
Learning Objective 2: The learner will be able to : identify key recommendations for further study
As primary and specialty care is more frequently delivered by Advanced Practice Providers (APPs), it is paramount that APPs establish themselves as leaders. Mentoring has been embraced across disciplines as a tool to guide professional growth. A group mentoring pilot was designed using the Strong Model after obtaining results from a needs assessment survey. The purposes of the program were to: develop APP leadership skills; provide opportunities for networking; increase competencies in research and finance; and, assist participants to develop a clinical project. Each participant’s project demonstrates the APP’s contribution to the patient, profession or institution.
A convenience sample of twenty participants (11 mentees and 9 mentors) began the program and 19 (10 mentees and 9 mentors) completed the one-year program. Participants were from acute, critical, and ambulatory care areas and 73% of mentees were in first time APP roles. The participants were divided into three groups that spent four months discussing topics related to leadership, finance, and research. Evaluation followed each cycle. Survey items included open-ended questions and Likert Scale assessments. Data from five surveys were used to evaluate program effectiveness and participant satisfaction.
At the pilot’s conclusion, 100% of participants agreed or strongly agreed that the mentoring pilot provided valuable experiences; the small group discussions were relevant and meaningful; there was improved understanding of the APN role; and there was increased medical center networking. Unexpected benefits included development of an online professional portfolio template and an interactive mentoring website; obtaining financial support from the Iota Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau and collaboration with a doctoral student. Recommendations for future programs include starting all participants in the leadership module, continuing the use of the Strong Model and group mentoring format, and developing criteria by which to evaluate participant projects.