The Need for Organisational Structure and Leadership Support: A Qualitative Study on Nurse Mentors' Perspectives on the Prerequisites for Effective Mentoring

Abstract

Background: Research consistently underscores the importance of mentoring and a supportive work environment for nurse retention and well-being. Previous research on nurse mentoring has primarily focused on mentees' perspectives. Research is scarce on the prerequisites for mentoring from the perspective of mentors—experienced registered nurses who guide and support their new colleagues, mentees. Aim: To explore nurse mentors' perspectives on the prerequisites for mentoring, following their participation in a mentoring intervention. Design: Qualitative study design with an inductive approach using focus group interviews as a data collection method. Methods: A total of 19 experienced registered nurses, appointed as mentors, were interviewed in four focus groups and one individual interview, in May and June 2022, following the conclusion of the intervention period. Focus groups consisted of three to six participants. The transcribed interview data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results: The main theme identified in the results was that mentors needed organisational structure and leaders' support to facilitate the mentoring process. Participants underscored the necessity of a comprehensive support system that spans the entire mentoring process, as described in three themes: creating foundations for mentoring; navigating mentoring challenges in everyday work routines; and post-mentoring reflection and learning. Conclusions: This study underscores the importance of integrating mentoring into daily healthcare routines by addressing barriers and facilitators, such as organisational structure and support from first line leaders. Key results highlight the need for pre- and post-mentoring phases to create a sustainable, continuous learning process. Further research should focus on developing sustainable frameworks for implementing mentoring. Implications for the Profession: Policies should explicitly support the dual role of experienced registered nurses as both caregivers and mentors, acknowledging the demands on their time and responsibilities. Policymakers should integrate mentoring frameworks into nursing roles. This could play a critical role in stabilising the work environment. Impact: What problem did the study address? Mentoring plays a critical role in helping newly qualified nurses transition into their professional roles, contributing to their retention and overall well-being. Although there is limited research on mentoring from the perspective of mentors. What were the main findings? Mentors needed organisational structure and leaders' support to facilitate the mentoring process. We identified that mentoring structures should include clear responsibilities, pre-mentoring preparation and post-mentoring reflections to ensure full implementation of the mentoring process. Where and on whom will the research have an impact? The findings of this study can support organisations in creating sustainable mentoring structures for registered nurses, in which both mentors and mentees collaborate within a community of practice. The mentoring findings can also be applicable to other contexts and professions. Reporting Method: Reporting of this study was guided by the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR). Patient or Public Contribution: No patient or public contribution.