Manitoba: enhanced orientation for nurses new to long-term care.

The Manitoba pilot project, Enhanced Orientation for Nurses New to Long-Term Care, lasted 18 months and involved three sites in the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority. It was developed to address the reality that individuals entering long-term care have more complex needs than in the past and that it is often difficult to recruit and retain nurses to work in this care setting. This mentorship program included 11 mentors and 12 protégés. As well, six clinical workshops were developed and held for a total of 390 participants. Protégés reported a positive effect on their transition to the workplace and their confidence levels, and mentors reported building their mentorship skills. The program has been expanded within the Winnipeg Region and to other health regions in the province and in Canada.