Peer buddy mentoring project for nurses' career development

Objective: The aim of the paper is to describe the implementation of a peer buddy mentoring model to support the career development of Registered Nurses (RNs) seeking Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) positions. Methods: A qualitative survey design was used to collect data during the workshops, with follow-up semi-structured telephone or face-to-face interviews. Data were also collected via the researchers' notes. Results: A total of 32 participants attended the program and 31 completed the surveys. The participants' reported needing more support when applying for a CNS position. Despite these issues, the participants recommend the use of peer buddy mentoring as a motivational, supportive and instructive model. Conclusions: Peer buddy mentoring, and facilitated workshops, is a relatively low cost and effective strategy to support nurses aspiring to advance their careers. Participants valued the development of the peer buddy relationship and the mutual support and motivation it engendered.