The transition from nursing student to registered nurse: The mentor’s possibilities to act as a supporter

The transition from nursing student to registered nurse can be exciting, stressful and challenging. It is common for nursing students to feel insecure about their competence and ability to step into working life. The role of the mentor in the final clinical practice is essential, as they guide students in their clinical learning process and professional growth. This study describes the mentor’s support in the transition from nursing student to registered nurse. Sixteen nursing students wrote narrative essays about the significance of the clinical mentor in their role change in the transition process from nursing student to registered nurse. The essays were analysed using inductive content analysis. The findings show that the mentor has a significant role. Three main categories emerged in mentor’s role: role change support, the mentor’s actions and the qualities of the mentor. In future in clinical nursing practice, it is important to allocate resources to the mentor’s work and understand its importance for nursing students’ transition to nursing.