Development and implementation of a standardized training program for newly graduated mental health nurses: Process and preliminary outcomes

BACKGROUND: Training programs are crucial for newly graduated nurses transitioning from nursing school to independent clinical nursing careers. However, few studies have focused on the training of newly graduated mental health nurses. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to develop, implement, and preliminarily evaluate a standardized training program for newly graduated nurses entering psychiatric nursing. DESIGN: The Delphi technique was adopted for program development, and a quasi-experimental design was employed for program implementation. SETTINGS: Six mental health institutions were involved in the practice training, and among these, three university-affiliated psychiatric hospitals were the study sites for theoretical training. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 180 newly graduated nurses hired by the six hospitals were involved and 154 finished the training program. METHODS: The program was developed using the Delphi method based on the results of a literature review and semi-structured interview with clinical practitioners. Change in mental health nurses' core competencies before and after the program was compared during program implementation. Focus group interviews were employed to collect the opinions and influence of the standardized training program after the intervention, and content analysis was used to analyze it. RESULTS: A two-round Delphi expert consultation was done, and 7 core competency elements and 37 training topics were designed for the standardized training program. The six-month training program consisted of two months for course training and four months of practical training, which were guided by a manual. Total CIRN scale score improved (142.29 ± 34.87 vs. 160.35 ± 32.46, P < 0.01) after receiving the program as did the scores for each dimension (P < 0.01). Participants gave positive feedback and suggested optimal training length and certification for the program. CONCLUSIONS: The standardized training program focused on mental health nursing proved to be a viable method of novice nurse training and resulted in positive outcomes. The program length and its long-term effects deserve further exploration to determine the best practical training program for sustaining optimal development of mental health nursing.