Nonclinical Transition-to-Practice Courses A Review of Course Content

Background Both clinical and nonclinical transition-to-practice courses have been offered to facilitate the transition from student to novice nurse. Problem Nonclinical transition-to-practice courses are less widely discussed in the literature; thus, their content and effectiveness have not been examined. Approach Academic institutions with baccalaureate nursing programs were surveyed to determine if they offered a nonclinical transition-to-practice course and to identify the associated content. Outcome Of 19 responding institutions, 15 reported having a nonclinical transition-to-practice course. Eighty-seven percent of the courses address ethical dilemmas, and 80% include delegation, interview preparation, stress management, and work/life balance. Conclusion Although schools of nursing are urged to address students' transition to practice, there is considerable variation in the nonclinical topics addressed. Research is needed to provide guidance to maximize the impact of these nonclinical transition-to-practice courses on new nurses' transition experience.

Automated summary

Research shows that while many academic institutions offer nonclinical transition-to-practice courses addressing topics like ethical dilemmas, delegation, interview preparation, stress management, and work/life balance, there is considerable variation in the focus on nonclinical topics among different schools. Further research is needed to provide guidance on maximizing the impact of these courses on new nurses' transition experience.