Implementing a Reality Shock Program

This article tells how one hospital successfully planned and implemented a bicultural program, where new graduates achieve biculturalism; they become competent in the work culture while retaining the values of the school culture.

Abstract

Turnover among new graduates is a serious problem for directors of nursing service. But research indicates that a solution exists—programs that help new nurses cope with the syndrome called reality shock can increase retention dramatically. Through such programs new graduates achieve biculturalism; they become competent in the work culture while retaining the values of the school culture. This article tells how one hospital successfully planned and implemented a bicultural program. Thus it provides directors of nursing service and staff development educators with a blueprint for this endeavor