A model for mentorship of newly qualified professional nurses employed in community health care services

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop a model for mentorship of newly qualified professional nurses (NQPNs) employed in community health care services. A triangulation of qualitative and quantitative designs was used for data collection. The experiences of NQPNs employed in community health care services were explored through focus group interviews. Based on the findings of the interviews, three questionnaires for different categories were developed to determine the self-care deficiencies that required mentorship of NQPNs. The findings revealed that NQPNs experienced self-care deficiencies regarding the performance of specific competencies related to dealing with psychiatry, midwifery practice, adaptation, organizational culture, health practice culture and interaction with the community they serve. It was recommended that adaptation/adjustment, health and nursing practice culture, development of skills and competencies, improvement of good relationships between NQPNs and community should be emphasised during training of nursing students to become professional nurses.