A Concept Analysis on Reality Shock in Newly Graduated Nurses Using the Hybrid Model

Sin, Kyung Mi; Kim, Eun Young

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to define and clarify the concept of reality shock in new graduated nurses.
METHODS
The hybrid model was used to develop the concept of reality shock. The model included a field study. The participants were 9 newly graduated nurses with a nursing career spanning less than a year.
RESULTS
The reality shock in newly graduated nurses was identified to have three dimensions and seven attributes. Specifically: 1) the dimension of performance included two attributes (conflict between theory and practice, and being overwhelmed by the workload), 2) the dimension of relationship included three attributes (loss of support, embarrassment from interference, and relational withdrawal), 3) the dimension of expectations included two attributes(value confusions and incongruity in personal life).
CONCLUSION
Newly graduated nurses' reality shock was defined as a state of incongruence in their entire life that the new nurses experienced owing to value confusions that occurred due to the conflicts between theory and practice in an unfamiliar work environment, getting overwhelmed by the workload, and withdrawing establishing relationships with others due to the loss of support and excessive interference. These findings could help develop intervention strategies to decrease reality shock in newly graduated nurses.