Supporting newly hired nurses: a program to increase knowledge and confidence while fostering relationships among the team.

Background: It is important for newly hired nurses to be supported throughout their first year of employment by nurse leaders on their team. Newly hired nurses struggle with application of new clinical skills and critical thinking skills as well as integrating into unit culture.

Program Design: The Post Orientation Education Program (POEP) provided 18 newly hired nurses with clinical knowledge and support through one-on-one meetings with the nurse leaders on their unit.