Preparing Graduate Registered Nurses for Independence in Aged Care.

Background: Graduate registered nurses (RNs) start their careers working in a variety of clinical areas including aged care. However, they may not be fully prepared to work in aged care settings that often require them to work independently as the only RN on the premises. A list of essential clinical skills is crucial for supporting the development and effective transition of graduate nurses into aged care.

Aims: To identify and rank a list of essential clinical skills for graduate RNs working in aged care settings on commencement of practice.

Methods: An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was applied and included a modified Delphi Study and semi-structured interviews. Five expert aged care RNs engaged in the three iterative Delphi rounds and five graduate aged care RNs were interviewed to confirm the clinical skills and ranking from their perspective. Quantitative data were presented through descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results: Thirty-six essential clinical skills for graduate RNs working in aged care settings were identified and ranked by the experienced aged care RNs. Graduate RNs supported this list of essential clinical skills on commencement and identified palliative care as an additional skill required by graduate RNs working in aged care.

Conclusion: The derived essential skills offer aged care a guided approach to ensure that graduate RNs are work-ready, safe practitioners and supported to work independently.

Implications For Practice: The study recommends the essential clinical skills for graduate nurses transitioning in their role as RNs in aged care that will support safe, quality clinical care.