Expectations, perceptions, and satisfaction of graduate nurses.

There is little research investigating the expectations and perceptions of graduate nurses. The purpose of this study was to investigate the expectations, perceptions, and satisfaction of graduate nurses. Individual interviews were performed at 1, 6, and 12 months. Results indicate that nurses were fairly satisfied, and two themes emerged: Establishing Relationships and Learning the Job. Findings contribute firsthand accounts of graduate experiences, which are valuable for staff development professionals creating programs to meet the needs of graduate nurses.