45 - Strengthening New Nurse Retention and Clinical Confidence at Regional One Health

Description: Strengthening new nurse retention and clinical confidence at Regional One Health, a level l trauma center is vital for the success of the new nurse and the organization. The Professional Development Team and the Clinical Nurse Educators play a vital role in the process. The specialties of the team included perioperative services, intensive care unit, and medical surgical areas to allow the patient to be the center focus as they transition to the level of care needed. Preparation and planning are crucial to the success of the new graduate nurses. The focus of planning includes bringing back the love of the practice, why they chose nursing, and building on their strengths as they add value to the organization. An assessment of the orientation process revealed the traditional methods of presentation such as lecture and power points did not engage the orientation staff. A less tedious more dynamic and fun active learner-based experience was needed. Clinical skills and check offs to foster skill development, promote critical thinking, enhance teamwork, and encourage reflective practice was developed. Simulations, gaming, and engaging activities including escape rooms was implemented. Evaluations by the orientation staff were reviewed after the onboarding orientation and reassessed prior to completion of unit orientation. The implications for perioperative nursing from novice to expert enhances teamwork and improves quality outcomes for the patient and the organization.