A descriptive study of mentoring relationships experienced by Army nurses in head nurse or nursing supervisor roles

Abstract

Mentoring relationships experienced by Army Nurse Corps officers in head nurse or nursing supervisor roles were examined via a survey questionnaire. Findings indicate that career development relationships are occurring among these nurses, but less than half of the relationships consist of mentoring. Nursing supervisors comprised the largest group of career developers, while head nurses were the second most likely group to assist with the development of a novice nurse. Approximately half of the nurses indicated that the career development relationship had a "substantial" influence on their personal lives, and a "very great" influence on their professional lives.