TITLE:
Orienting a new generation of nurses: Expectations of the millennial new graduate
AUTHORS:
Elaine M. Riegel
KEYWORDS:
New Graduate Nurses; Millennial Nurses; Orientation; Generational Diversity
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Nursing,
Vol.3 No.7,
November
15,
2013
ABSTRACT: Generational
diversity provides a unique quandary for nursing leaders and educators to
enlist, orient, and retain nurses. Millennials are the largest cohort since the
Baby Boomers and the age group from which the nursing profession will build its
future workforce. This study examined the experiences of the new graduate nurse
of the millennial generation as they navigate orientation in an acute care
setting. Using a Web-based survey to conduct the study allowed nurses from
across the country to participate while providing easy access to the study
questions. Analysis of the data through qualitative content analysis
demonstrated a dominate theme of seeking structure while expecting an
individualized orientation. The survey also revealed the importance of the preceptor and manager in the perceived success of this generation’s transition and
a need to assimilate into the professional role of RN. Recognizing that there
is a need to promote a more individualized orientation with improved mentoring
for novice nurses and their preceptors is evident and challenges nursing
leaders and educators to rethink current practices to retain new nurses.
Established roles within the hospital and individual nursing units are changing
and traditional strategies for recruitment and retention no longer apply. A
structured orientation can facilitate the transition from new graduate to
professional nurse and assist in the retention of qualified nurses and ultimately
safe patient care.