Development of an innovative curriculum-to-career transition program for nurse practitioners in primary care

Background: Unlike physicians, there are no current requirements or funding for the post graduation training of advanced practice nurses. Given the complexity of health care, more post graduate training programs are needed to meet growing demand. Purpose: A taskforce was convened to research gaps in preparation for real-world practice, as well as effective models of curricular and clinical support to promote positive patient outcomes. Methods: Supportive structures for advance practice nurses are dependent upon understanding the barriers, facilitators and structural support required to implement such a program. Findings: Starting a curriculum-to-career program the semester prior to graduation is a relatively untested model for advanced practitioners to receive enhanced mentored education and support to increase resiliency, reduce early burnout and burden on the health setting. Discussion: Advanced practice nurse fellowships should be considered as essential as medical residencies are for physicians in clinical practice.