Mentorship and early career retention in pediatric nurse practitioners: Findings from a nationwide survey

BACKGROUND: The demand for advanced practice registered nurses is surging in response to evolving health care needs and workforce shortages, particularly in pediatrics. These shortages underscore the importance of retaining pediatric nurse practitioners (PNPs). Lack of mentorship can pose challenges in transition to practice for PNPs, and there is limited research on the implications of mentorship. PURPOSE: To evaluate the relationship between having a mentor and the duration PNPs remain in their first professional role, describe the prevalence of mentorship among PNPs, and explore key characteristics of those mentoring relationships. METHODOLOGY: This study used convergent mixed-method design. A 28-question survey created by the authors sent to certified PNPs. Primary quantitative analysis used univariable/multivariable logistic regression models with mentorship status as the primary exposure and descriptive analysis of other variables. Analysis of open-ended questions analyzed with qualitative descriptive method with coding by two independent coders. RESULTS: Results indicate that having a mentor in their first position was significantly associated with greater odds of remaining in that role (odds ratio [OR] = 1.44, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.06-1.96). Among 599 PNPs no longer in their first position, mentorship in the first role was associated with increased odds of remaining in the position for over 2 years (OR = 2.59, 95% CI: 1.84-3.63). Qualitative analysis identified three main themes relating to PNPs and mentoring including "time to transition," "guidance and support," and "shaping the future." CONCLUSION: This study highlights the importance of mentorship when transitioning to practice for PNPs and its potential long-term effect on retention.