Clinical Practice of New Nurse Graduates in Lebanon: Challenges and Perspectives Through the Eyes of Preceptors

The findings of a research study that explored the perceptions of preceptors regarding the clinical practice of nurse graduates using the qualitative multiple case study design provide directives that curriculum leaders and executive nurses can use to plan initiatives that assist in the effective transition of new nurse graduates to the professional role.

Abstract

New nurse graduates continue to experience difficulty balancing their preparation for practice with the expectations of the workplace. Few studies have explored the transition practices of nurse graduates through the challenges that they experience. This article presents the findings of a research study that explored the perceptions of preceptors regarding the clinical practice of nurse graduates using the qualitative multiple case study design. Twenty preceptors, selected from three recognized hospitals in Beirut, Lebanon, underwent semistructured interviews. Interview questions were based on an extensive literature review and on Tanner's (2006) judgment dimensions to categorize transition practices. An exhaustive discussion of the practices led to the identification of major themes that illustrate the clinical experiences of new nurse graduates: (1) inventory of competencies, (2) learning experience, (3) technical and theoretical mysteries, and (4) challenge of one's potential. The themes provide directives that curriculum leaders and executive nurses can use to plan initiatives that assist in the effective transition of new nurse graduates to the professional role.