RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Despite available training programs for neonatal advanced practice providers (Neo APP), including neonatal nurse practitioners and physician assistants, it is difficult to meet the demand for these providers. There are no publications regarding training models with greater than 1 Neo APP learner per mentor. PURPOSE: To create and measure outcomes of a 12-month program to educate Neo APP "Super-Mentors" able to train 2 Neo APP learners simultaneously. METHODS: Super-Mentors were selected and attended monthly classes to learn mentorship concepts and receive support. Learners received didactic content and support through a Fellowship program. Quantitative data regarding recruitment and retention, as well as Misener Nurse Practitioner Job Satisfaction Scale (MNPJSS) results were compared pre- and postprogram. Qualitative satisfaction measures via survey from 21 stakeholders were analyzed through a phenomenological approach. RESULTS: Six Super-Mentors trained 14 Neo APPs, as compared to 7 in the previous year. One Neo APP left after training. Summative preprogram MNPJSS scores were better (5.1 ± 0.37) than postprogram (4.7 ± 0.47) (P < .001). The most important preprogram subscale item was "vacation" versus "quality of assistive personnel" postprogram. Both pre- and postprogram scores reflected positive job satisfaction so differences may not be clinically significant. Qualitative program benefits included faster and increased onboarding, stronger relationships, and dedicated time. Challenges included role clarity among other stakeholders, learning culture, and spacial/technological logistics. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Super-Mentors can train twice the number of Neo APP learners, with optimal preparation and support of all stakeholders, adequate space, and appropriate technology.
RESUMO
BACKGROUND: There is increasing demand for neonatal advanced practice providers (APPs) and a shortage of neonatal nurse practitioners (NNPs). In many neonatal intensive care units, neonatal physician assistants are trained and hired, as well as new graduate NNPs. Neonatal APPs are utilized as mentors in a regional neonatology program in the Pacific Northwest. As part of a long-term goal to develop an educational program for neonatal APP mentors, an initial survey was administered. PURPOSE: The purpose of this survey was to raise personal insight and identify themes about 51 neonatal APP mentors' recollections of one's own worst and best mentorship experiences. METHODS: The design used in this content analysis of survey responses included a phenomenological, qualitative approach. The participants received an online survey consisting of 2 questions asking them to describe their worst and best mentorship experiences. The blinded results were analyzed via content analysis by 2 coinvestigators. RESULTS: Consistent themes about worst experiences include "Eat our young," "I am better than you," "Thrown under bus," and "Unwanted." Consistent themes about best experiences include "Validation," "Empowerment," "Positivity," and "Inclusion." IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Recommendations for successful neonatal APP mentorship based upon the recurrent themes include use of consistent, engaged, trained, and supported mentors, provision of on-time constructive feedback, avoidance of public criticism, private and public praise, focus on the learner, preparation for tasks, and semiautonomy, with adequate support. IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH: Absenteeism, recruitment, retention, and satisfaction data may be measured to determine whether structured mentorship programs are beneficial.