New Graduate Nurse Work–Life Assessment for Job Selection: Observational Study to Validate the Nursing Environment Fit Index Instrument

Background: The study developed and validated the Nursing Environment Fit Index (NEFI) to guide new graduate nurse (NGN) work and lifestyle preference assessment. Method: The MEASURE approach guided instrument development and pilot testing. End users provided qualitative face validity assessment, and content validity was evaluated through a content validity index. Once initial validity was established, the NEFI was pilot tested. Results: Four NGNs provided face validity. Five experts provided content validity assessment. Twelve criteria were maintained (0.733 Scale-level Content Validity Index/Average), nine criteria met Item-level Content Validity Index threshold (0.80), and one criterion from each category did not meet thresholds and was modified but retained. Ninety-two participants pilot tested the NEFI. Almost 100% agreed questions were relevant, and 84% agreed the NEFI helped them decide what clinical area to apply for. Twenty-nine participants completed a 6-month questionnaire. Sixty-five percent indicated they applied following NEFI recommendations. Seventy-three percent agreed taking the NEFI when seeking a job would be beneficial. Conclusion: Initial testing showed reliability and validity of the NEFI. The NEFI appears to have success informing NGN decisions within the pediatric setting.