Abstract: The authors note that the literature identifies that the transition from tertiary based training to the realities of industry expectations can be a stressful period for graduates. Various District Health Boards offer postgraduate papers within their graduate nursing programmes, resulting in graduates being expected to perform the role of a beginning practitioner as well as embark on postgraduate education during this first year. As yet, the authors note, there is little evidence available to substantiate the efficacy and impact of such papers. The purpose of this study was to explore graduate nurse's experience of postgraduate education within the Graduate Nurse Programme. The report contains the results of a survey of nurses within the Programme. This report details the results of that survey and make recommendations for consideration.

Abstract: Primary health care is a dynamic and ever-changing area of practice which has undergone many changes in the last ten years. Traditionally, primary health care was not a routine choice for new graduate nurses as they were encouraged to work in a hospital setting before seeking a position in the community. Bachelor of Nursing programmes emphasise primary health care practice and increasingly nurses and their employers are moving away from the traditional belief of 'doing your time in the hospital' before contemplating the move to primary health care. Currently in New Zealand increasing numbers of graduates from Bachelor of Nursing programmes want to begin their working life as registered nurses in this area. A constructivist approach was taken to explore the experience of five nurses who entered primary health care practice as new graduates. Participants were interviewed using a semi-structured format. They constructed their experience as role transition and identified a number of significant factors which had impacted on their practice. These factors included both the personal and practice challenges they experienced and the strategies they used to address them. Further research findings were a transition time of one year, the importance of both formal and informal support, planned orientation and opportunities for reflection. A number of mediating factors including new graduate programmes, peer support and mentorship were also discussed. Key implications for practice, education, employers and future research regarding transition to primary health care for new graduates are discussed. This research emphasised the importance of appropriate resources and support for new graduates from Bachelor of Nursing programmes. These factors are suggested as integral to the development of new graduates' practice in primary health care and reduction of the challenges inherent in this transition.

Abstract: For this study, an anonymous survey was sent to registered nurses in their first year of practice. From the 1169 survey instruments that were distributed, 551 were returned completed (a response rate of 47%). The most common inappropriate behaviour by patients involved verbal threats, verbal sexual harassment, and physical intimidation. There were 22 incidents of assault requiring medical intervention and 21 incidents of participants being stalked by patients. Male graduates and younger nurses were especially vulnerable. Mental health was the service area most at risk. A most distressing incident was described by 123 (22%) of respondents. The level of distress caused by the incident was rated by 68 of the 123 respondents (55%) as moderate or severe. Only half of those who described a most distressing event indicated they had some undergraduate training in protecting against assault or in managing potentially violent incidents. After registration, 45 (37%) indicated they had received such training. The findings of this study indicate priorities for effective prevention programmes.

Abstract: Aims to understand influences on new graduate nurses' confidence in their nursing practice. Confirms the value of self-confidence in newly-qualified nurses commencing practice. Utilises Appreciative Inquiry methodology to analyse the dialogue of nine new graduate nurses who share their stories of practice. Highlights five themes from their accounts. Identifies influences on the nurses' confidence, and the reflective practice pervading their nursing practice.