Implementing a nursing internship program.

Abstract

The Ottawa Hospital developed an evidence-based nursing internship program to meet the challenges of new graduates. The literature suggests manychallengesthattheyface during their transition from student to new graduate, with a turnover estimated as high as 60%. The program provides support to new graduates by offering opportunities for growth and autonomy, leading to active participation as team members. Evaluation criteria include satisfaction for interns, preceptors, clinical mangers and educators based on the program objectives, and new graduate turnover. We were able to decrease new graduate turnover from 23% at two years to 10%, with $360,000 in savings from the reduced turnover.