Best practices of formal new graduate nurse transition programs: An integrative review

The stronger evidence suggests that new graduate education should focus on practical skill development, preceptors should receive a level of formal training, formal support should be available at least through the difficult six to nine month post-hire period, opportunities for connection with their peers should be provided, and organizations should strive to ensure clinical units with healthy work environments.

Abstract

The variable quality of evidence limits the conclusions that can be drawn. The strongest evidence consistently showed new graduate nurse programs enhanced critical thinking, competency and retention and there were advantages with use of bundled preceptor strategies to support new graduates.