Nurses perceived benefits of and recommendations for mentoring at a major caribbean hospital

Purpose: The purpose of this research was to document the nurses’ perceived benefits as well as their recommendations regarding mentoring at one at a major Caribbean hospital in Barbados. Methods: A descriptive qualitative case study was employed to answer the main questions of what the nurses perceive as the personal benefits gained from their mentoring that contributed to the professional growth of the new nurses. The sample (n = 115) consisted of graduate nurses between 6 months to 5 years employed at the hospital. Data was generated from participants’ responses using the Beecroft mentoring tool, and a demographic questionnaire. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyze results. Items were summarized using, thematic analysis. Results: The thematic analysis showed that the nurses were able to transition into the profession due to confidence, socialization, guidance and trust. Findings from the study also suggest that the nurses recognized the importance of mentoring and the need for the institution to have a more structured program which extends over six months period.