The impact of nurse preceptors on new graduate RNs

Abstract

New graduate RNs (NGRNs) offer the largest supply of nurses in acute healthcare organizations. Transitioning from the academic to hospital setting, NGRNs commonly experience transitional shock, a phenomenon that occurs when one adjusts from a familiar role to unfamiliar role. 1 Factors such as limited experience, challenging work environments, and a lack of supervision can result in a negative impact on an NGRN transition, resulting in stress and burnout.To combat this, nurse preceptors can have a positive impact on organizations by helping NGRNs transition from an academic to a healthcare setting. A nurse preceptor program is a structured training that helps nurse preceptors in transitioning NGRNs into their clinical role. These programs improve NGRNs' critical thinking and can increase retention at facilities. 2 This article will discuss the benefits of having trained nurse preceptors at facilities, and how this workforce can enhance the learning and retention of NGRNs.