A Longitudinal View of Perceptions of Entering Nursing Practice During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Background. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly changed the landscape of health care and transition to practice for new graduates. The purpose of this pilot study was to explore the effects of the pandemic on the first-year experience of new nurses. Method. A longitudinal, observational, descriptive study design was used. One hundred eighteen survey links were sent to new bachelor of science in nursing graduates from June 2020 to May 2021, with 56 responses to the first survey. Results. Participants indicated the COVID-19 pandemic negatively affected the new graduate experience, resulted in concern for personal health and safety, and negatively altered preparation for the first year in practice. However, desire to be a nurse and view of nursing remained positive. Conclusion, The first year in practice is stressful and challenging. The pandemic posed additional challenges to employers and new graduates. Future research should explore the long-term impact of the pandemic on an already strained nursing workforce.