Developing an evidence-based transition program for graduate nurses.

BACKGROUND: The catalyst to revise the graduate nurse program at an inner city hospital was a major service reconfiguration, which reduced services, staffing and graduate nurse positions. Parameters for the new program were that it was evidence-based and could function within the reduced resources.

OBJECTIVE: Review current literature and design an evidence-based transition program.

METHODS: Eight databases were searched for primary and secondary research and unpublished theses (2004-2014), which were then hand searched. Eighty-three articles were reviewed and 50 retained as they informed development of a program designed to actively promote the graduates' transition from undergraduate to independent health professional.

RESULTS: Three key concepts emerged from the literature: the graduates' need for support, socialisation and facilitated learning opportunities. This article reviews the literature and outlines a program designed to maximise these concepts in an evidence-based transition program. Proposed evaluation tools are identified for use throughout the program.