Nurse Practitioner Mentoring Programs: Developing and Supporting Novice Nurse Practitioners

Abstract

Aim: This paper highlights the need for Nurse Practitioner (NP) mentoring programs and describes the program development and maintenance undertaken to meet the needs of novice NPs in our acute care setting. This paper may assist NPs in other settings to develop mentoring programs. Background: The transition to the nurse practitioner (NP) role for novice NPs is stressful and full of challenges as they acquire new clinical skills and confidence. Many structures need to be in place in the organization to successfully support novice NPs in the acute care setting. Mentoring programs are one such structure which are effective in supporting novice NPs. Methods: The mentoring program was framed in program planning and evaluation theory. A needs assessment was conducted surveying NPs at our site regarding their perceptions of being a novice NP and attitudes toward NP mentoring programs. An environmental scan of existing NP mentoring programs was conducted as well as review of the NP turnover information at our site. Findings: Twenty-one NPs completed the on-line survey. The NPs indicated that an NP program would be beneficial for new NPs. There was a lack of confidence, feelings of being overwhelmed, and retrospective reports that their first year in the NP job was very stressful. While some NP organizations offered mentoring programs, gaps remain in the resources available to all novice NPs. Program development followed. Conclusion: Mentoring programs support novice NPs as they advance in their NP role transition. An NP mentoring program was developed, implemented, and maintained with positive process evaluations. A more formal program evaluation is needed.