title: The value of mentoring: a strategic approach to retention and recruitment.
abstract: The issues of recruitment, training, and retention of experienced nursing staff remains an ongoing business strategy of nursing service in many health care facilities. The implementation of a structured mentoring program recognizes the need to develop and maintain relationships between the new and the experienced nurses. The terms of mentor and mentee are defined within a structured orientation program, highlighting specific roles and responsibilities of each. The use of other staff as preceptors and resources is discussed as a mechanism to enhance diversity in skill and knowledge development. The value of clinical tracking forms, planning calendars, and feedback mechanisms are stressed to ensure success in monitoring this program in a longitudinal way. Problems associated with the assignment of mentors are addressed as an area for future investigation in different care settings.
mesh_terms: D004651:Employment; D006801:Humans; D007318:Inservice Training / Q000379:methods / Q000458:organization & administration; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D008611:Mentors; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000193:education* / Q000458:organization & administration; D011231:Preceptorship / Q000458:organization & administration; D013192:Staff Development / Q000379:methods / Q000458:organization & administration; D014922:Wisconsin