Pathways in Nursing (Image courtesy of NursingLicenseMap.com)
Transition-to-Practice programs (also called residency or on-boarding programs) are widely recognized as an important tool to help new nurses make the transition into the nursing workforce. They are referenced in the Master Plan for Nursing Education in Washington State, which makes it a priority to "assure the future competency of the nursing workforce [which] includes making certain that students and new graduates acquire the knowledge and develop the skills demanded of today's new nurses, receive the appropriate level and type of education, and make a successful transition from school into practice."
Specific recommendations in the Master Plan include:
- Develop means of tracking current and future access to structured Transition-to-Practice (TTP) programs at practice settings across the state
- Develop and distribute tools for structured TTP programs across the state
- Promote the introduction of structured TTP programs for new nurses in all practice settings
"Nursing encompasses the autonomous and collaborative care of individuals of all ages, families, groups and communities, sick or well in all settings. Nursing includes the promotion of health, prevention of illness, and the care of ill, disabled and dying people. Advocacy, promotion of a safe environment, research, participation in shaping health policy and in patient and health systems management, and education are also key roles."
International Council of Nurses |
