A Thematic Analysis of the LPN-BN Transition Journey

Introduction: Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) pursuing their Bachelor of Nursing (BN) degree have the unique advantage of scaffolding from their past experiences; however, this comes with some challenges. Final clinical preceptorships play a crucial role in BN students' transitional journey, but little is known about how successful transition is determined and measured for LPN to BN learners.

Goals and Methods: This qualitative study explored what constitutes a successful transition of LPN to BN graduate students. The study is a piloted, two-phase, mixed-methods, interpretive description design. We used two sources of data with two tools: (1) electronic surveys with closed and open-ended questions and (2) semi-structured interview guides. Within the first phase, we invited students and preceptors to reflect on the transition experience. In the second phase, we interviewed participants individually to explore the transition further. Within Nvivo, data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings were analyzed per each participant group and then compared against each other.

Results: We determined themes of similarities and differences within the students' and preceptors' perspectives on what constitutes a successful LPN to BN transition. Both groups identified successful transition as a shift in the learner's way of thinking and increased competencies and skills. A variety of factors facilitated and detracted from a successful transition. For example, the effectiveness of relational practice between students and preceptors was a key facilitator when positive and a crucial barrier when negative.

Conclusions: There is a dearth of research exploring the unique journey of the LPN learner transitioning to a BN graduate. Thematic analysis was useful in illuminating both student and preceptor perspectives about successful transition. Findings from this study will inform an open education resource highlighting teaching and learning strategies to facilitate a successful transition of LPN learners to BN graduates.