Evolution of Goal Setting in Novice Nurses: A Comparative Study Conducted 3 and 6 Months After Employment

Abstract

Objective: To examine trends in the goals set by novice nurses at 3 and 6 months after beginning employment.

Method: A quantitative text analysis was conducted on those goals during off-job training by 29 novice nurses hired in 2022 at a regional hospital department.

Results: In the 3rd month, the goals included "improving my current situation," "developing an effective nursing process," "improving my communication skills," "fulfilling my societal role," "strengthening interdepartmental cooperation," "Sustaining commitment to work," and "developing my personal skills." By the 6th month, the goals shifted to "acting based on decisions about priorities," "providing patient-focused care," "Improving collaboration within the nursing team" "increasing work efficiency," and "achieving independence in my role."

Discussion: In the 3rd month of employment, novice nurses primarily set goals centered on "action,"—completing immediate tasks to build a stable professional foundation. However, by the sixth month, their goals shifted, with more frequent emphasis on "thinking"—focusing on reflective nursing practice and work-related insights. The results suggest the importance of supporting novice nurses changing goals throughout their initial 6 months in the workplace.