An exploration of the Return to Practice experience of nursing students: An evaluative mixed methods research study.

Aim: This study was conducted to explore the experiences of nursing students on a Return to Practice course; including their confidence levels and intention to remain on the nursing register.

Background: Nurses and midwives whose registration with the NMC (Nursing & Midwifery Council) has lapsed may choose to undertake a Return to Practice course. This course enables those who have left the profession to update their skills and knowledge and to re-join the register. Currently, little information exists concerning the experience of returners as they prepare to re-enter the nursing workforce.

Design: Exploring the confidence levels and preparedness of Return to Practice nursing students and measuring the effectiveness of a Return to Practice course using an online questionnaire.

Methods: Mixed methods research design was used to address the evaluative research questions. An anonymous questionnaire was administered online to collect quantitative and qualitative data reflecting the experiences of the Return to Practice nursing students.

Results: Return to Practice nursing students feel well prepared by their Return to Practice course and report a high level of confidence in returning to the clinical workforce.

Conclusions: Despite their concerns around aspects of nursing, such as the highly pressured working environment, most Return to Practice students intend to continue as a nurse for the remainder of their careers and should therefore be supported with this route into the nursing profession.