What do new graduate nurses really need when transitioning to clinical roles?

Background: Transitioning from a student nurse to a clinical nursing role is a critical period for newly graduated nurses (NGNs), often accompanied by multiple challenges. Understanding their professional needs during this transition is essential for designing targeted supportive interventions that enhance adaptation, professional integration, and workforce retention. In this study, we aimed to explore the perceived needs of NGNs during their transition to clinical nursing roles in medical and surgical wards. Methods: We conducted a qualitative descriptive study using inductive content analysis. We recruited 21 NGNs from teaching hospitals affiliated with Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran, using purposive sampling. We collected data through semi-structured, in-depth interviews. We analyzed the data using Graneheim and Lundman’s five-step conventional content analysis approach and applied Lincoln and Guba’s criteria to ensure trustworthiness. Results: Our analysis yielded 792 codes, categorized into seven key themes: (1) Health Promotion Needs, (2) Organizational Support Needs, (3) Social Needs, (4) Orientation Program Needs, (5) Educational Needs, (6) Psychological Support Needs, and (7) Emotional Needs. Conclusion: NGNs encounter multidimensional and complex challenges during their transition to clinical practice for which they are not entirely prepared. Addressing these needs is crucial for improving professional integration and mitigating adverse outcomes such as burnout, occupational stress, and turnover intention. Our findings emphasize the urgent need for structured, evidence-based support programs incorporating comprehensive orientation, tailored educational interventions, and robust psychological and organizational support systems. We recommend that nursing managers and policymakers prioritize targeted strategies to facilitate a smoother, more effective transition, ultimately enhancing nurse retention and the quality of patient care.