The experiences of new graduate nurses working in a pediatric setting: A qualitative systematic review

Objective: To synthesize the literature regarding the experiences of new graduate nurses working in a pediatric setting. Background: The transition experiences of new graduate nurses can be stressful and challenging. Pediatric settings may cause additional stress due to the unique nature of children's nursing and its' environment. Inclusion criteria: Qualitative studies of any design and qualitative components of mixed method studies that explored the experiences of new graduate nurses in a pediatric setting were included in this review: neonatal intensive care units and special care nurseries were excluded. Methods: The JBI meta-aggregation approach for synthesizing qualitative data was followed. Databases searched were CINAHL, MEDLINE (Ovid), APA PsycInfo, Scopus, PubMed Central, ERIC, and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses. Studies published between January 2000 and January 2022 inclusive were considered. Results: 2229 records were screened, and nine studies selected. From the nine studies 203 findings were included, resulting in 19 categories and five synthesized findings. The synthesized findings related to support, developing identity and role transition, working conditions and environment, fear and uncertainty, and career and goal planning. Conclusions: New graduates in a pediatric setting required support that took account of their development needs with consistent preceptorship. Being considered part of a team and the support of other team members were important in developing identity as a new graduate nurse in a pediatric setting. Working conditions for the new graduate needed to be safe, and new graduates also felt fearful and uncertain when it came to their new accountability and responsibilities. (c) 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This review synthesizes the literature on the experiences of new graduate nurses working in a pediatric setting. The findings highlight the need for support for new graduates in developing their identity and transitioning into their roles, addressing working conditions and environment, managing fear and uncertainty, and planning their careers and goals.