Exploring facilitators and barriers for successful transition among new Saudi graduate nurses: A qualitative study

Abstract

Aim: This study aims at exploring Saudi newly graduated nurses' perspectives on the facilitators and barriers for successful transition from being a student to being a nurse. Design: A phenomenological qualitative methodology was employed. Methods: Focus group discussions were carried out among 35 Saudi nurses at one major university hospital in Saudi Arabia. Results: Under the theme of barriers to transition three main subthemes emerged, namely “Fear of making medical errors,” “Intense Workload and Expectations,” “Bullying and lack of support,” while under the facilitators of transition the subthemes which emerged were “Supportive preceptor,” “Training workshops,” “Need for transition programs.” This research found that formal and informal techniques for strengthening institutional variables and improving individual factors are critical for new graduate nurses' effective transition into professional responsibilities.