Navigating the Transition: A Qualitative Inquiry into the Mentorship Role of Trained Nurses in Supporting Novice Nurses

Transitioning into operating room (OR) practice requires skilled mentorship, and trained operating room nurses play a critical role in guiding novices in this high-risk environment. However, little is known about how trained OR nurses manage the challenges of mentoring while fulfilling their clinical responsibilities, particularly in private hospitals in the Philippines. This study explored the experiences of trained nurses in mentoring novice nurses in the OR of a selected private hospital in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur. Using a case study design, face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with five trained OR nurses, two novice OR nurses, and two OR nurse supervisors selected through purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using Yin’s six-stage case study process. The findings revealed four major themes: structured orientation through compliance with OR policies and guidelines, hands-on demonstration and supportive guidance for skill development, challenges in novice nurse engagement and mentorship continuation, and continuation of mentorship and support for novice nurse learning. The study concludes that policy-driven orientation and hands-on, supportive mentorship are the main factors developing competent and confident novice OR nurses but must be reinforced by adequate staffing and organizational support. Strengthening formal OR mentorship structures in private hospital may enhance novice nurses’ adaptation, improve retention, and promote patient safety in the perioperative setting.