Addressing the Unique Challenges of a Statewide Nurse Transition to Practice Program

The post-pandemic healthcare landscape significantly impacted the professional nursing workforce by exacerbating existing challenges, including the academic-practice gap of new nurse graduates. Transition to practice (TTP) programs have been proven effective in supporting newly licensed registered nurses as they move into practice. A well-designed TTP program empowers new nurses to become resilient and competent, enhancing patient care and contributing to a healthier work environment. While these programs have been instituted throughout the country, most are in acute care settings, primarily in urban areas. The authors present a model for creating a transition to practice program designed to address the unique challenges faced in rural areas. The step-by-step process the Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association (AzHHA) used to set up a statewide transition to practice program geared towards small and rural facilities and those serving the underserved is presented. The critical partnership with OpusVi, who was contracted for a customized curriculum to address the unique needs of hospitals, such as critical access and behavioral health is outlined. Finally, concrete actions that can be taken and a roadmap for program assessment are offered.