A systematic review of the experiences and perceptions of the newly qualified nurse in the United Kingdom.
OBJECTIVE
A systematic literature review of the experiences and perceptions of newly qualified nurses in the UK during the transition from student to staff nurse.


BACKGROUND
It has been widely recognised that newly qualified nurses experience a period of transition. Over the past decade there has been radical reorganisation of nurse education in the UK which has raised issues of preparation for practice.


METHODS
Searches were made of the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) and MEDLINE.


METHODS
A systematic review was carried out. Papers were critically reviewed, relevant data were extracted and synthesised.


RESULTS
Four themes were identified from the empirical evidence base: transition and change, personal and professional development, pre-registration education, preceptorship and support.


CONCLUSIONS
Transition remains a stressful experience for newly qualified nurses in the UK. Reasons include an increase in personal and professional development, changes in pre-registration education and lack of support once qualified.


CONCLUSIONS
Further research is needed to address the current situation in relation to the transition period including pre-registration education, preparation for practice and support in both primary and secondary care.
Higgins
Georgina
G
Welton Health Centre, 4 Cliff Road, Welton, Lincoln LN2 3JH, United Kingdom. ghiggins27@gmail.com
Spencer
Rachael Louise
RL
Kane
Ros
R
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002055:Burnout, Professional / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology; D002983:Clinical Competence; D004509:Education, Nursing, Continuing; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D024802:Nurse's Role; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D009740:Nursing Staff / Q000193:education / Q000523:psychology*; D011231:Preceptorship; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012107:Research Design; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012941:Social Responsibility; D012944:Social Support; D013192:Staff Development; D006113:United Kingdom