Date of Conferral

8-7-2026

Date of Award

August 2026

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Diane Whitehead

Abstract

The transition from student nurse to professional practice remains a vulnerable period marked by role ambiguity, stress, and early turnover. At a large medical center, the lack of a structured bridge between the final capstone experience and the residency program contributed to inconsistent onboarding, reduced confidence, and diminished resilience among new graduates. Addressing this gap is essential for strengthening retention, supporting workforce stability, and improving patient outcomes within nursing practice. An evidence‑based clinical practice guideline (CPG) outlining best‑practice recommendations for a new graduate transition program from capstone to residency was developed for the facility. The practice‑focused question asked whether the guideline would be approved by an expert panel using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II (AGREE II) tool. Analytical strategies included a structured review of transition‑to‑practice literature, iterative guideline development with stakeholder input, and expert appraisal using AGREE II domains to assess rigor, clarity, applicability, and stakeholder involvement. Findings demonstrated strong expert endorsement, indicating that the guideline is feasible, relevant, and aligned with organizational needs. Recommendations emphasize standardized orientation processes, early mentorship, resilience‑building strategies, and structured feedback mechanisms. Implications for nursing practice include improved transition readiness, enhanced retention, and strengthened support for diverse new graduates. Broader implications for positive social impact include equitable onboarding, psychological safety, and inclusive professional development environments.

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