Factors influencing newly graduated registered nurses' voice behaviour: An interview study

Abstract

Aim: To gain insight into the factors that affect newly graduated registered nurses' voice behaviour. Background: Employees with little work experience may experience difficulties with speaking up. Given that a lack of voice can negatively affect the delivery of safe client care and lower nurses' job satisfaction, it is important to understand which factors facilitate and hinder newly graduated nurses' voice behaviour. Methods: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 17 newly graduated registered nurses working in inpatient hospital settings. Results: In total, seven factors emerged from our data, which were grouped in four overarching themes. Whether newly graduated nurses speak up depends on (1) their levels of self-confidence, (2) whether they feel encouraged and welcome to speak up, (3) their relationship with the voice target and (4) the content of their voice message. Conclusion: Factors that affect newly graduated nurses' voice behaviour are multifaceted, but mostly centre around time spent in and relationships at the workplace. Implications for Nursing Management: Nurse managers and colleagues can build an environment that fosters newly graduated nurses' voice behaviour. Specifically, induction programmes, assigning mentors and offering additional training can support newly graduated nurses in developing voice behaviour.