Pathology

Disease

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)

Medical education

Infectious disease (medical specialty)

Clinical psychology

Stressor

Nursing

Political science

Psychology

Health care

Preparedness

Clinical Practice

Preceptor

Advanced practice nursing

Nurse practitioners

Medicine

Nurse Educator

Background The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted nursing education and required modification of instructional methods and clinical experiences. Given the variation in education, rapid transition to virtual platforms, and NCLEX-RN testing stressors, this cohort faced unique losses and gains influencing their transition into clinical practice. Purpose This study examined the impact of COVID-19 and preparedness for professional practice of 340 new graduate nurses (NGNs) at an academic medical center. Methods This was a mixed-methods descriptive study focusing on how clinical experience loss or gains in the final semester affected the fears, concerns, and recommendations for NGNs. Results More than half (67.5%, n = 295) of NGNs reported changes to clinical experiences, ranging from 0 to 240 hours transitioned to virtual (n = 187; median, 51; interquartile range, 24-80). NGNs fear missing important details or doing something wrong in providing patient care. They identified the need for preceptor support, guidance, teaching, and continued practice of skills. Conclusion Recommendations are clear communication with leadership, advocacy from the nurse residency program, and targeted clinical and emotional support for NGNs.

Impact of COVID-19 on New Graduate Nurses' Transition to Practice