Program implementation and outcomes from three cohorts of the nurse-family partnership nurse residency program.

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to describe a Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP) Nurse Residency Program (NRP) and program outcomes. Dual methods were used to evaluate the first three cohorts of the NFP NRP. Participants were new NFP nurses, most working in Colorado. Pre-(n = 42) and post-program (n = 26) surveys were completed using the Individual Workplace Perception Scale (IWPS) and endorsement of program objectives; key informant interviews were done with the initial cohort. Descriptive statistics and unpaired t-tests (for the IWPS) were used to explain program effectiveness and efficacy. Forty-two NFP nurses participated in the program at the onset. There was consistent attendance (92% or more) among those who finished and modest individual attrition during the length of the program. Participants reported high levels of satisfaction with the content and meeting program objectives; there were no significant differences on pre- and post-program IWPS scores. The program was well-received by program participants and has the potential to contribute to the professional development of new NFP nurses.