The best of both worlds – entering the nursing profession with support of a transition programme

Abstract

Background: Transition into clinical practice for newly graduated nurses is a difficult time, with high stress levels defined by a demanding period of personal and professional acclimatisation. Transitions are complicated and multi-dimensional, and to understand this process, it is crucial to identify the factors that facilitate or stand in the way of a healthy transition. Aim: The phenomenological study aimed to describe newly graduated nurses’ expectations of transitioning into the nursing profession at the start of a clinical nursing introduction programme, including education, supervision, and critical reflection with peers. Method: The study was based on seven group interviews with newly graduated nurses. The interviews utilised open-ended and follow-up questions and were carried out as a dialogue to enable reflection on the phenomenon of interest. This was explored and illuminated using the reflective lifeworld research approach, based on phenomenological epistemology. Findings: “Expectations of transition into the nursing profession via the Clinical Nursing Introduction Programme” is signified by an oscillating movement between uncertainty, security, challenge, and growth on the threshold of a new identity. The phenomenon is constituted by the courage to grow, responsibility and fear, belonging and vulnerability, and support and challenge. Conclusion: Transitioning into the nursing profession via the Clinical Nursing Introduction Programme means having the best of both worlds. Newly graduated nurses have the opportunity to receive education and structured support at the same time as they work independently in clinical practice.