Benefits of MentorshipMentorship can be broken down into peer and professional associations. A peer mentoring study was done by Bulut et al. (2010) which had first year nursing students paired with fourth year nursing students, this relationship increased the students’ perceptions and potentials of the university. Other outcomes included decreasing first year students stress levels, increasing self-confidence, autonomy and problem solving skills. Benefits for the senior students were developing a sense of responsibility, enhancing communication skills, critical thinking skills and leadership skills.
Some negative factors mentioned in this study that hindered mentorship was intimidating attitudes and poor communication from the mentors (Bulut et al., 2010). The main benefits for peer mentoring according to Jokelainen et al. (2011) includes gaining knowledge and increasing professional growth for the mentee.Professional mentorship encompasses the novice nurse and an experienced nurse, benefits can include validation, job satisfaction, increase in knowledge, and possible career advancement for the mentor (Chen & Lou, 2013; Huybrecht et al., 2011; Race & Skees, 2010).
According to Bulut et al. (2010) three key goals of professional mentorship undertake emotional support, career assistance, and role modeling. Mentorship programs increase group cohesion and job satisfaction which decreases nurse turnover rates (Wallen et al., 2010). Mentoring enhances the mentee’s career and professional development which Hodgson & Scanlan (2013) relates mentoring to employee development. Chen & Lou (2013) state that mentorship is beneficial to enhance their competencies and decrease stress and distress related to the reality of transition from stude.
.orkplace environment by both the manger, seasoned staff and the organization. If the environment is not conducive and supportive, this leads to job dissatisfaction and turn-over. This is why mentoring new nurses is vital to retain nurses and met the standards of safer competent nursing practice (Race & Skees, 2010).ConclusionThe benefits are vast when it comes to mentorship, it benefits both the mentor and mentee on a personal and professional level and the clinical practice institution. Peer and professional mentoring are equally required and mentorship facilitates the growth of new leaders which is vital to the nursing profession.
Mutual relationships between the mentor and mentee is considered crucial for the success of mentorship. Mentorship programs are necessary to retain new nurses, decrease facility costs, and improve the safety and quality of patient care.
