Examining the Effects of a Structured Mentorship Program on the Nurse Mentor: A Pilot Study Engaging Oncology Nurses

Mentorship programs are an emerging strategy in the nursing profession to support and develop new staff in the field; this 12-month structured program found those in the mentoring role benefit, too. The sample included 11 oncology RNs working in the inpatient acute hospital setting, serving as mentors in the oncology nurse residency program. The results were statistically significant for compassion satisfaction, and burnout scores decreased. Qualitative analysis of the open-ended questions revealed mentors felt confident they make a difference, enhanced professional growth, and reduced burnout.

AT A GLANCE

• Mentorship programs can combat nursing turnover, providing a possible solution to the United States’ nursing shortage.
• Mentorship programs may increase compassion satisfaction, job satisfaction, and workplace cohesion for the mentor.
• Mentorship programs can decrease compassion fatigue, burnout, and secondary traumatic stress for the mentor.