Bridging programs for practical nurses
Insights to help retain students transitioning to RNs
A recently conducted systematic review has unveiled valuable insights into bridging programs for post-licensure practical nurses (also known as licensed practical nurses, registered practical nurses, enrolled nurses, and registered vocational nurses) who are seeking to become registered nurses (RNs). The review sheds light on the unique experiences and challenges faced by practical nurses and provides valuable recommendations to address the critical global nursing shortage.
The shortage of registered nurses has emerged as a significant concern worldwide, with high turnover rates within the profession and an inadequate number of new graduates entering the field. The consequences of this shortage are far-reaching, affecting both the quality and accessibility of healthcare services, as highlighted by organisations such as the World Health Organization and the International Council of Nurses.
To tackle this pressing issue, nursing education programs are under increasing pressure to enhance enrolments and boost the number of nurse graduates. Alternate educational pathways in nursing education to help increase the supply of RNs include bridging programs specifically designed for practical nurses, which provide a pathway for them to upgrade their education and professional credentials to become registered nurses.
However, there are significant attrition rates in bridging programs, with reports of up to 30% of students leaving before completion. It is therefore important to understand the experiences and needs of bridging students. By identifying their unique challenges and providing tailored educational supports, nursing programs can increase retention rates and successfully transition more practical nurses into the registered nurse role.
Insights from this systematic review will play a vital role in informing policymakers, nursing educators, and healthcare stakeholders on the measures needed to retain bridging students in nursing programs and bolster the supply of registered nurses in the workforce.
The qualitative systematic review, Nursing students’ experiences of a post-licensure practical nurse bridging program, is available in the July 2023 issue of JBI Evidence Synthesis
McCloskey, Rose; Keeping-Burke, Lisa; Morris, Patricia; Witherspoon, Richelle; Knight, Holly; Cave, Sara.
JBI Evidence Synthesis 21(7):p 1359-1407, July 2023. | DOI: 10.11124/JBIES-22-00217