title: New nurses' perceptions of nursing practice and quality patient care.
abstract: During this time of nursing shortages, hospitals that want to maintain the competitive edge must seek ways to recruit and retain a competent nursing staff. This study was conducted in a large hospital that strives to be the primary health care provider and employer of choice in its geographic region. The purpose of the study was to assess new nurses' perceptions of nursing practice and their expectations for meeting professional goals. Sixty-seven new nurses from 13 hospital departments were interviewed. Comprehensive orientation, continuing education, and mentoring were important values identified by this group of nurses. Communication with physicians and fear of causing accidental harm to patients were expressed concerns. Data from this survey will be used by the organization to change orientation policies to better meet the needs of the nursing staff and improve recruitment and retention of nurses.
authors.affiliation: East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tenn, USA. rboswell@chartertn.net
authors.forename: Suzanne
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Boswell
authors.forename: Lois W
authors.initials: LW
authors.lastname: Lowry
authors.forename: Kathryn
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Wilhoit
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002321:Career Choice; D002983:Clinical Competence / Q000592:standards; D003142:Communication; D004509:Education, Nursing, Continuing / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D007318:Inservice Training / Q000592:standards; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D007588:Job Satisfaction; D008875:Middle Aged; D020380:Needs Assessment; D015401:Nursing Administration Research; D009732:Nursing Care / Q000592:standards*; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000193:education / Q000523:psychology*; D011787:Quality of Health Care / Q000592:standards*; D015144:Southeastern United States; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014193:Trauma Centers