Newly graduated nurses’ evaluation of the received orientation and their perceptions of the clinical environment: An intervention study

Abstract

Background New graduate nurses (NGN) are the future of healthcare organizations where a shortage of nurses will soon be reality. The transition from a student to a registered nurse can be a demanding and challenging time, and in order to retain new graduate nurses, the transition should be as smooth as possible. AimThe aim of this study was to examine preceptors’ education intervention’s impact on NGNs’ orientation period and their clinical learning environment from NGNs’ point of view. Material and Methods This survey was a part of a longitudinal quasi‐experimental intervention study. Participating units were randomized into intervention group and control group. The intervention group’s preceptors (n=174)were provided a face‐to‐face education about orientation. Results NGNs (n=72) were relatively satisfied with the received orientation. However, intervention group was more discontented with their orientation experiences than the control group. The control group’s NGNs had longer orientation periods and more feedback discussions. They were also more satisfied with their preceptor’s orientation skills and their working environment was more responsive. Discussion Even though the impact of the intervention was inconclusive, this study provided us important information about NGNs’ first steps towards the nursing profession by giving us clear improvement targets. We need a culture of feedback, individualized orientation and understanding that orientation should be our common interest. Investing in orientation is investing for the future. Conclusion This study indicated that the increase in knowledge did not translate into everyday practice. This finding will hopefully give rise to discussion within organizations on how to utilize employees’ gained knowledge more effectively.

Exploring New Graduate Nurses’ Perceptions of Factors Influencing Job Satisfaction and Resignation Ideation During COVID-19

“…In this study, the lowest levels of feeling socially connected and lowest reported levels of all types of incivility occurred at this stage. This is consistent with the study of Lindfors et al (2022), who reported that prepandemic NGNs in orientation perceived their unit as welcoming and colleagues supportive of their learning. NGNs at this stage rated their self-confidence and feelings of transition to practice completion at a low level, consistent with Duchscher's (2008) description of NGNs' feelings during transition shock.…”

“…In a recent study by the American Nurses Association (2022), 66% of participants ( n = 11,964) reported experiencing incivility or violence from patients, families, the public, and other staff nurses. In prepandemic studies, a healthy work environment, a supportive preceptor, and ongoing feedback from the supervisor contributed to NGNs’ feelings of receiving a higher quality orientation (Lindfors et al, 2022). Work-based relationships characterized by incivility are perceived as stressful by NGNs who, because of their novice status, are dependent on experienced nurses for help (Urban & Barnes, 2020).…”

New Graduate Nurses Navigating Entry to Practice in the Covid-19 Pandemic

“…Protected orientation time is necessary, yet participant orientation in this study was said to be cut short as a response to exorbitant staffing shortages. Orientation should not be cut short, however, in practice this continues to occur, having significant implications on new graduate nurses – both decreasing their confidence as an independent practitioner and increasing their desire to leave the workplace ( Kiel, 2020 ; Lindfors et al, 2022 ; Schmidt & Schiffman, 2019 ).…”

New Graduate Nurse Transition into Rural Home

“…Duchscher (2008) correlates transition shock to an inadequate time for adjustment. Optimally, orientations are individually structured with consideration for an NGN's personality, resilience, and clinical experience (Lindfors et al, 2022). With Emily's undergrad experiences in acute care, extending the orientation offered additional time to acclimate to the unfamiliar workplace routines, roles and responsibilities, and clinical practice expected of a rural home care nurse.…”