Program implementation and outcomes from three cohorts of the nurse-family partnership nurse residency program.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this paper is to describe a Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP) Nurse Residency Program (NRP) and program outcomes. METHODS: Dual methods were used to evaluate the first three cohorts of the NFP NRP. Participants were new NFP nurses, most working in Colorado. Pre-(n = 42) and post-program (n = 26) surveys were completed using the Individual Workplace Perception Scale (IWPS) and endorsement of program objectives; key informant interviews were done with the initial cohort. Descriptive statistics and unpaired t-tests (for the IWPS) were used to explain program effectiveness and efficacy. RESULTS: Forty-two NFP nurses participated in the program at the onset. There was consistent attendance (92% or more) among those who finished and modest individual attrition during the length of the program. Participants reported high levels of satisfaction with the content and meeting program objectives; there were no significant differences on pre- and post-program IWPS scores. CONCLUSIONS: The program was well-received by program participants and has the potential to contribute to the professional development of new NFP nurses.