Association of Peer Mentoring on Nursing Student Retention: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Background: Strategies focused on nursing student retention and success in education programs can reduce and mitigate the nursing shortage. This review examines the evidence on peer mentoring programs among baccalaureate nursing students and the association of program retention, academic success, and effective transition to practice.

Method: CINAHL, PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for peer-reviewed articles from 2018 to 2024 to identify outcomes related to peer mentoring programs in nursing education.

Results: Seven articles met the inclusion criteria using PRISMA guidelines. Evidence demonstrated the benefits of peer mentoring programs in nursing education included improved student retention, academic success, and professional development for mentor and mentee participants.

Conclusion: Peer mentoring programs in nursing education are an effective strategy to increase student retention, success, and preparation for professional practice. Further research is needed regarding program design and implementation. [J Nurs Educ. 2025;64(5):294-298.].