Arizona Transition to Practice Program for New Graduate Registered Nurses
Transitioning from a student nurse to a professional nurse can be overwhelming. In addition to learning how to be a competent practitioner at the point of care, new graduate nurses need to be connected with an experienced nurse who will nurture and support them as they become accustomed to their clinical role. Mentoring also plays a vital role in achieving accreditation and Magnet designation.
Eligibility
If you have three years of nursing experience beyond the bedside and a diverse nursing profile, you are eligible to apply to serve as mentor.
You also must commit to:
- Supporting up to four new graduates.
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Serving as a mentor to the new graduate(s) for the entire 12-month duration of the Arizona Transition to Practice Program.
Program structure
Each new mentor is assigned up to four new graduate nurses, and these nurses may be located at different facilities.
Mentors schedule a minimum of two structured meetings with each new graduate nurse consisting of:
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An initial meeting which includes introductions, goal setting and a creation of a communications plan.
- The program recommends this meeting takes place after the new graduate’s first month.
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A final meeting which includes reviewing outcomes from the goals created and closing the mentoring loop.
- The program recommends this meeting occurs after the new graduate has completed the Arizona Transition to Practice Program (after month 12).
Other meetings and touch points occur as determined by the mentor and the new graduate. These meetings are held virtually.
Benefits of mentoring
Adopted from the American Nurses Association Mentorship Program
Mentoring provides many benefits to new graduate nurses by providing an additional layer of support to help them be successful in their new roles. Organizations also gain advantages from formal mentoring programs.
The new graduate nurse will:
- Enjoy more career satisfaction.
- Receive ongoing direction, support and advice.
- Gain insight into a nursing role or specialty.
- Expand their professional network.
- Discover career development opportunities.
- Refine problem-solving skills.
- Experience reduced stress associated with transitioning roles.
- Feel less overwhelmed on the job.
- Get guidance from a role model.
The organization:
- Displays support for ongoing learning.
- Improves nurse recruitment and retention.
- Promotes enhanced teamwork by emphasizing overall goals.
- Contributes to high-quality patient care and better patient outcomes.
- Identifies and nurtures future nurse leaders.
Are you interested in being a mentor for the Transition to Practice Program? Apply now.