Becoming an Air Force Nurse: The Experience of Transition A New Perspective of a Known Phenomenon

PROBLEM Transitions in nursing have consistently been described as complex and stressful. While the literature is replete with studies investigating role transitions in civilian healthcare settings, there is no known research that explores the role transition of experienced nurses who move from civilian to military nursing practice. Using nurses in the U.S. Air Force as an exemplar, this study serves as a starting point to understand the transition process and challenges likely encountered by nurses new to the military. The outcomes of this study could influence future efforts to recruit and retain qualified nurses. METHODS A hermeneutic, phenomenologic approach was used to explore and describe the lived experience of transition from civilian staff nurse to Air Force staff nurse. FINDINGS The results indicated that new Air Force nurses encounter challenges related to a lack of knowledge and role preparedness, which led to feelings of stress and frustration. Support from peers, mentors, and managers helped the new Air Force nurses bridge the gap in knowledge and successfully integrate into the military culture. IMPLICATIONS Efforts to reduce the perceived lack of knowledge through improvements to the Commissioned Officer Training program and the clinical orientation period are recommended.