Outcomes of postgraduate fellowships and residencies for nurse practitioners: An integrative review

Abstract

Background

In 2011, the Institute of Medicine published a report on the future of nursing, which recommended nurse practitioner postgraduate training in the form of fellowships or residencies. Since then, the number of postgraduate programs has grown, but data is still scarce regarding their efficacy and benefits.

Aim

The goal of this integrative review is to synthesize available literature regarding the outcomes of nurse practitioner postgraduate fellowships and/or residencies on clinical competence and perceived readiness to practice.

Methods

CINAHL, PubMed, and citation searching were used to search relevant subject headings, MeSH headings, and keywords related to fellowships and residencies for nurse practitioners, resulting in 11 articles being included based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Synthesis was completed using the Garrard Matrix method to identify common themes among the studies.

Results

Eight quasi-experimental and three cross-sectional studies were included in this review. Programs included multiple areas of focus, including primary care, critical care, and pediatric acute care. Common themes among the studies were an increased level of preparedness, reduced turnover, and greater job satisfaction.

Conclusions

The major theme found among the studies was an increased confidence and preparedness to practice. Minor themes include increased job satisfaction and decreased intent to quit.