Ready or not: Examining the efficacy of the academic preparation of BSN students and readiness to enter practice

Abstract

<p>The concept of critical thinking (CT) has perplexed employers and researchers in the field of nursing for decades. The nursing profession is under intense pressure to hire clinicians who exhibit CT skills. A review of the literature has shown that the divide between bedside clinicians and nursing faculty has led to the separation of academic educators from clinical practices. As a result, new graduates come into the clinical setting inadequately prepared to meet the clinical demands of today&rsquo;s hospitalized patients. The purpose of this study was to explore the experience of new graduate nurses from a Baccalaureate program and their transition into clinical practice. A generic qualitative approach sought to describe and understand the topic of interest, with respect to nurses&rsquo; preparedness to meet the demands of their profession. The results of the study found that the new graduate nurses did not feel confident entering the workforce of the nursing profession. Study participants reported the lack of skills training as the major reason for their feelings of being ill-prepared in the clinical setting. Collaboration between academia and hospital settings must focus on shared responsibilities for meeting the learning needs of new graduates. In so doing, this will enhance the quality of care provided and patient safety.</p>