Date of Graduation

Spring 2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Department

Nursing

Committee Chairperson

Jackie Owens DNP, CRNP, FNP-BC

Committee Member

Joanna Dixon DNP, RN

Abstract

Abstract

The transition from nursing student to professional practice is a high-risk period for newly graduated registered nurses (NGRNs), often associated with role strain, limited clinical confidence, and high turnover. Structured preceptor mentorship programs have been identified as critical interventions to support both preceptors and NGRNs, enhancing job satisfaction, instruction competence, and workforce retention. This Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project employed a quality improvement design guided by Lewin’s Change Theory to evaluate the impact of a structured preceptor mentorship program in a mid-sized acute care hospital. Five preceptors and twelve NGRNs participated in an eight-week intervention that included mentor pairing, instructional workshops, reflective discussions, and regular check-ins. Outcomes were measured using the McCloskey/Mueller Satisfaction Scale and the Preceptor Clinical Teaching Behaviors and Mentorship Confidence Survey at baseline, post-intervention, and six-month follow-up, supplemented by qualitative thematic analysis. Findings indicated improvements in preceptor job satisfaction, instructional confidence, and mentorship engagement, alongside positive trends in NGRN retention. Integration of mentorship practices into organizational policies and onboarding protocols supported sustainability, and inclusion principles were emphasized through culturally responsive and equitable mentoring strategies. This project demonstrates that structured preceptor mentorship fosters professional resilience, enhances the quality of onboarding, and contributes to workforce stability, patient safety, and organizational excellence. Findings provide evidence-based guidance for nursing practice, education, and policy initiatives aimed at improving transition-to-practice outcomes.

Keywords: preceptor, mentorship, newly graduated registered nurse

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