What is a key focus of a transition-to-practice program for new nurses?

A transition-to-practice program for new nurses primarily focuses on facilitating onboarding. This process is critical as it provides new nurses with the necessary support, guidance, and resources to effectively integrate into their professional roles and the healthcare environment. Effective onboarding involves orientation to the policies, procedures, and culture of the organization, as well as education on clinical practices, teamwork, and communication strategies.

These programs aim to ease the transition from education to practice, reducing the anxiety and uncertainty that new nurses may experience. By fostering a supportive environment, transition-to-practice programs help build confidence and competence among new graduates, ultimately leading to improved patient care and employee retention. This foundational aspect of onboarding is essential for ensuring that new nurses develop the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in their nursing careers.

In contrast, promoting external recruitment, reducing salary costs, and focusing on specialized nursing positions do not align directly with the core objectives of a transition-to-practice program. While recruitment and cost management may be relevant to healthcare organizations in general, they do not specifically address the needs of new nurses as they begin their professional journey.