Transitioning of final year nursing students to professional nurses: A best practice guideline

  • D. van Rooyen Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
  • P. Jordan Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
  • E.M. Caka South African Military Health Service, South Africa
  • W. ten Ham-Baloyi Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University

Abstract

Abstract

Background. The period of transition from student nurse to professional nurse in various healthcare contexts can be challenging. No best practice guideline could be found optimizing the transition of final year nursing students to professional nurses in the South African Military Health Service (SAMHS).

Methods. A draft guideline was developed based on data from interviews with students and professional nurses, and an integrative literature review including guidelines on the transition of final year nursing students to professional nurses (content), using the AGREEII instrument (format), which was piloted using expert panel reviews.

Results. The guideline covers four areas: support for new graduates, providing socialization and belonging, enhancing a positive clinical learning environment and ensuring retention of newly qualified professional nurses.

Conclusion. The guideline provides a guide to best practices which can be used by nurse educators and managers but requires implementation to determine its impact on a successful transition period.

 

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Author Biographies

D. van Rooyen, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
Faculty of Health Sciences
P. Jordan, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
Department of Nursing Science
E.M. Caka, South African Military Health Service, South Africa
Nursing College
W. ten Ham-Baloyi, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
Faculty of Health Sciences

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Published
2020-02-02
How to Cite
van Rooyen, D., P. Jordan, E.M. Caka, and W. ten Ham-Baloyi. 2020. “Transitioning of Final Year Nursing Students to Professional Nurses: A Best Practice Guideline”. South African Journal of Higher Education 33 (6), 300-314. https://doi.org/10.20853/33-6-2442.
Section
General Articles