Abstract
AimThe aim was to explore the experiences of new graduate nurses who provide support to breastfeeding women in neonatal care settings. The objective of this study was to explore the enablers and barriers that influenced new graduate nurses’ self-efficacy. BackgroundNurses have important roles in promoting and educating breastfeeding women in neonatal care settings. Although there are many studies that focused on nursing students and registered nurses’ experiences in supporting breastfeeding women, there is limited research about the experiences of new graduate nurses during their transition from universities to neonatal care settings as a registered nurse where they learn how to educate and support breastfeeding women. DesignA qualitative descriptive study. MethodsNine new graduate nurses who support breastfeeding women in neonatal care settings within Australia were recruited. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews via videoconference or telephone. Braun & Clarke’s thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. ResultsThis study found four themes: Preparedness, Emotions, Ongoing Learning, and Confidence. Barriers and enablers included support, time, consistency of information, and impact of stereotyping. The new graduate nurses did not initially feel prepared to support breastfeeding women due to their lack of knowledge. Participants’ self-efficacy enhancing strategies to help build knowledge and confidence supporting breastfeeding women included: a) frequent practice, b) having role models and seeking support, c) receiving encouragement and positive feedback, and d) interpreting their emotional feelings as a normal reaction to the learning process. ConclusionAdditional education should be provided during pre-registration education and on commencement of employment in neonatal settings to improve new graduate nurses’knowledge supporting breastfeeding women. Self-efficacy enhancing strategies can be used in partnerships between educational institutions and hospitals to support new graduate nurses to feel more confident providing breastfeeding support in neonatal care settings.
Submitted Version (
Free)
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
