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The aim of this study was to examine the work readiness of newly licensed RNs (NLRNs) based on demographics, education, and work experiences. BACKGROUND: Work readiness is the extent to which new graduates possess qualities and competencies associated with workplace success. Work readiness of NLRNs complements their clinical knowledge and skills and has been shown to predict job satisfaction and work engagement. METHODS: Two hundred ninety-seven NLRNs participating in the nurse residency program of a health system in the southeast region of the United States were surveyed using the Work Readiness Scale-Graduate Nurse. RESULTS: Scores on all readiness dimensions were high. Analysis revealed unexpected differences in readiness dimensions based on race, nursing degree, and completion of a nurse externship program. CONCLUSIONS: Work readiness adds to our understanding of factors that can affect the transition of NLRNs into the work setting. Further research is needed to understand how work readiness develops over time, factors that predict work readiness, and its relationship to NLRN retention and other outcomes.

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The nurse is an essential interdisciplinary partner in the delivery of family- and patient-centered palliative care for families faced with perinatal or newborn loss in the labor and delivery (L&D) unit and in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Early identification and referral of the family to perinatal and neonatal palliative care services is paramount. Improving nursing communication with the family, advocating for the family, and providing supportive nursing care, which includes physical and psychological symptom management, are emphasized. The L&D unit is an area in which patients can experience both joy and loss; it is imperative that L&D nurses receive education about palliative care in the event of maternal complications and/or congenital anomalies that lead to the death of a newborn. Principles of essential individualized, compassionate, and culturally competent palliative care interventions are reviewed using patient and family exemplars.

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