B50 Peer Mentor Program

As the emotional demands of healthcare work increase, we recognized the need to develop a unit-specific, mentor-based program to supplement the hospital's clinical Transition to Practice (TTP) program. Our initiative places a greater emphasis on providing emotional support in the workplace, rather than clinical competency. The Peer Mentor Program (PMP) focuses on boosting morale, enhancing confidence, and creating a supportive environment where questions are encouraged and emotional support is readily available. This initiative involves mentorship from experienced nurses, regular debriefing sessions, and access to resources tailored to the specific challenges faced by new nurses. To foster team camaraderie, unit-based group activities involving PMP members were organized in conjunction with one-on-one time between mentorship pairs. Utilizing mentor and mentee feedback and results, the PMP leadership team continually adapted to meet the specific needs of new nursing staff in the acute care unit. This approach helped new graduates feel more secure and competent in their roles while promoting a positive work atmosphere.