Aim: 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.
Data sources: 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.
Conclusion: 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.
Recommendations: 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.
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