A systematic review of the experiences and perceptions of the newly qualified nurse in the United Kingdom

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