title: Understanding Transitions to Promote Student Success: A Concept Analysis.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this analysis is to provide an extensive exploration of the concept of transitions, specifically within the context of nursing students.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  Transitions are a universal part of life. The concept of transitions is rooted in disciplines such as anthropology, sociology, psychology, and business. Transitions are also a central theme in nursing. While various definitions of the concept exist, most agree that transitions involve a process, which over time results in transformation of self.
  
  
  METHODS
  Walker and Avant's eight-step method of concept analysis served as the framework for exploration of the concept.
  
  
  METHODS
  The databases Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, MEDLINE, Education Resources Information Center, ProQuest, and Academic Search Premiere were searched using the search terms transition, transitions, transformation, nursing students, anxiety, and clinical education. Quantitative and qualitative studies, published concept analysis, and transition theory articles were included.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  During a transition, people experience stress and anxiety. This applies to nursing students as well, who often report much stress and anxiety upon entering the initial clinical experience. However, consequences of a successful transition include increased knowledge, attainment of new skills, and identify reformation. By understanding the concept, nurse educators can develop effective teaching strategies to facilitate successful transitions, which will improve the educational experience, support student retention, and promote graduation of competent practitioners. Hart Swenty.
authors.affiliation: Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY.
authors.forename: Julie A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Hart
authors.affiliation: University of Southern Indiana, Evansville, IN.
authors.forename: Constance F
authors.initials: CF
authors.lastname: Swenty
mesh_terms: D002983:Clinical Competence / Q000592:standards; D004508:Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D009726:Nurses / Q000592:standards* / Q000639:trends; D013338:Students, Nursing / Q000523:psychology*
keywords: Concept analysis; nursing education; student nurse; transition