Aristos Neocleous
Whitireia New Zealand,
Title: Peer mentoring: Promoting leadership in a nursing role
Biography
Biography: Aristos Neocleous
Abstract
This presentation will describe and explain how peer mentoring promotes leadership in a nursing role.
Background
A qualitative research study utilising focus groups was undertaken in 2016/17 to explore the impact of peer mentoring on final year Bachelor of Nursing students’ transition to nursing workforce. Seven new graduate registered nurses who had been in a peer mentoring programme participated in the study. Leadership in a nursing role was highlighted as an area of nursing practice enhanced as a result of participation in a peer mentoring programme.
Results
Peer mentorship has strong links to professional development and in turn the development of nurse leaders (Krause-Parello et al., 2013). Peer mentoring further encourages nursing students to ask questions (Edmunds & Brown, 2010) which increases awareness of nursing roles and responsibilities. There are many benefits of peer mentoring including an increase in reflection, critical thinking and role modelling along with development of leadership skills (Brannagan et al., 2013; Ford, 2015; Ramm, Thomson, & Jackson, 2015). Participants in peer mentoring programmes are better prepared to problem solve and introduce innovation through leadership (Hooker, 2013). Peer mentoring opportunities in undergraduate nursing education enhances learning for peer mentors and peer mentees.
Conclusion
Peer mentoring increases nursing student engagement with peers, enhances learning and promotes leadership in nursing roles, thus facilitating nurses’ transition to nursing practice.