AIM
The aim of this study was to explore how nurses experienced the role transition from clinical expert to part-time clinical faculty member when they worked in both a clinical and academic setting.
BACKGROUND
In response to the current nurse faculty shortage and the anticipated return of a nationwide shortage of registered nurses, the use of part-time clinical nurse educators has been increasing.
METHOD
Fourteen RNs were interviewed using online video conferencing for this qualitative phenomenological study.
RESULTS
Study findings revealed seven key themes: different background-different experiences, guidance and support, challenges along the way, maintaining two work roles, influences of prior work experience, influence of personal attributes, and recommendations for successful transition.
CONCLUSION
This work-role transition was found to be highly individualized and multifactorial. Results of the study may be beneficial in future administrative decision-making.
Background
Part-time clinical nurse educators who simultaneously work in both a clinical and an academic setting experience a unique work-role transition. Identifying and addressing their needs during this time may assist in new faculty retention.
Purpose
As part of a larger study examining the work-role transition of part-time clinical nurse faculty, a specific research question was developed to determine how these individuals experience the phases of the Nurse Educator Transition (NET) model.
Methods
This qualitative phenomenological study used both purposive and snowball sampling to recruit 14 RNs who were part-time clinical educators.
Results
Study findings validated all 4 phases of the NET model. In addition, several participants indicated a sense of returning to the first 2 phases of transition at the beginning of new semesters and courses.
Conclusion
The NET model is applicable to the part-time clinical nurse educator population. This theory can be used as a framework to design orientation and mentorship programs that specifically target part-time clinical nurse educators.
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