The Similarities and Differences in Transition to Practice Experiences for New-Graduate RNs and Practical Nurses in Long-term Care

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to describe the transition-to-practice experience of new-graduate nurses (NGNs) in long-term-care (LTC) settings. BACKGROUND Transitioning to professional practice is a challenging time for an NGN. This experience is scarcely described for RNs outside of acute care settings and not described for the LPN. METHODS A qualitative case study was used to explore the described transition-to-practice experience of new-graduate RNs and LPNs in LTC. RESULTS This study revealed that the transition-to-practice experience of new-graduate LPNs was similar to the experience described by RNs. Differences in experience were related to leadership roles in the setting. CONCLUSIONS Findings contribute to new understanding of the experience of the NGN in LTC settings. This study reinforces the need for greater support for nursing graduates in this setting.

The Similarities and Differences in Transition to Practice Experiences for New-Graduate RNs and Practical Nurses in Long-term Care Journal Articles