I-Kiribati nursing graduates experience of transition from university to residential aged care facilities in Australia.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the experience of international nursing graduates from Kiribati transitioning into practice in RACFs, upon completion of their bachelor of nursing degree in Australia. DESIGN: This study used an interpretive phenomenology design with two focus groups. A thematic analysis of the transcripts from the focus groups generated themes relating to the graduates personal journey through transition. SETTING: This study was conducted with graduates working in residential aged care facilities [RACF]. SUBJECTS: I-Kiribati nursing graduates (N=6) who have been practicing for 1year in RACF. RESULTS: The experience of transition for the I-Kiribati graduates related to challenges faced during this time. Three themes were developed from the analysis: being unsure of expectations, understanding responsibilities of practice, and stepping up to the RN role. The influence of culture was apparent within the three themes. CONCLUSION: Overall, the transition to RACFs for the participants was difficult; however, students described increased confidence to work through professional and cultural challenges. They became more reliant on their own knowledge and skills as they matured as practitioners. Recommendations for improving the transition experience include transitional support and educational workshops related specifically to working in RACF. Tailoring workshops to the specific needs of international graduate nurses would assist their transition in relation to cultural differences.