Increasing Confidence Through the Development of a Transition-to-Practice Orientation Program for the Experienced Nurse

A formalized orientation program for experienced nurses was modeled after a program for new graduate nurses. Within a year, experienced nurses rotated through teaching stations, including simulations of shock and respiratory failure. Participants completed pre- and postsurveys and scored self-confidence on a Likert scale. Surveys showed a significant increase in participants’ confidence related to elements in their new role. Future plans include a retention rate comparison of participants in this program versus nonparticipants.