The exploration of the lived experience of the graduate nurse making the transition to registered nurse during the first year of practice.

The purpose of this study was to gain insight into the transition period of graduate nurses. A phenomenological research approach was used to explore the lived experiences of graduate nurses during their first year of employment. Content analysis resulted in five thematic areas identified as indicators of a positive transition experience. The findings of this study provide information for staff development instructors, nurse managers, and nurse administrators in identifying practice environment characteristics and initiatives that promote a positive transition period for graduate nurses and increased retention in initial areas of nursing practice.