Degree Name
Nursing Practice, DNP
Publication Date
8-2-2025
First Advisor
Lisa Drake
Second Advisor
Chandra Carter
Abstract
Nursing education programs face challenges from faculty shortages, high turnover, and limited onboarding support for new educators. This Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project assessed the effectiveness of a structured orientation and mentorship program aimed at improving competency, job satisfaction, and retention among novice nurse educators within a mid-sized nursing program in the southeastern United States. The project addressed gaps in existing onboarding processes that left new faculty unprepared, which contributed to dissatisfaction and attrition. A mixed-methods pre- and post-intervention design was utilized. Quantitative data were gathered through the Self-Assessment of Nurse Educator Competencies (SANE-C), the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire (MSQ), and a faculty-specific survey. Data analysis involved paired-sample t-tests (α = .05) and nonparametric tests when assumptions were violated. Qualitative data from structured focus groups were thematically examined. Results showed statistically significant improvements in teaching competency (p = .050, Cohen's d = 0.77) and large effect sizes for intent to stay (p = .057, d = 2.31). Job satisfaction did not reach significance due to the small MSQ sample (n = 3). Qualitative results highlighted increased confidence, role clarity, and appreciation for mentorship, with participants recommending extending the program to a full academic year. This project demonstrates that structured mentorship improves educator readiness, supports professional development, and promotes retention. By stabilizing the faculty workforce and enhancing nursing education quality, this model provides a scalable solution for addressing faculty shortages.
Rights Management
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Luther, Emily R., "Enhancing Novice Nurse Educator Success: A Comprehensive Orientation and Mentorship Program" (2025). Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects. 133.
https://arch.astate.edu/dnp-projects/133
