Providing support and boosting confidence through the Arizona Transition to Practice Program

Bradie Blair, a nurse at Mt. Graham Regional Medical Center, graduated from the Arizona Transition Practice Program for New Graduate Registered Nurses in June 2025. The program provides mentorship, professional development and continuing education to support new nurses in their clinical practice. Prior to moving from Wyoming to Stafford, Ariz., Bradie had never heard of a transition to practice program. Read on to learn more about her experience with the program.

What inspired you to become a nurse?

I have always loved helping people and learning things. And it’s been a passion of mine to help those who need it during difficult times. I love learning and having the knowledge to answer patients’ questions during times of uncertainty.

How has this program helped you transition from a student to professional nurse? 

The thing that benefitted me the most from this program was having a preceptor. All of the nurses are great on the floor I work on and all of them have no problem answering any of my questions. But knowing that I had a preceptor that I could go to and be able to text at any time was invaluable.

What challenges did you face as a new nurse and how did the program help you overcome them? 

Because I recently moved here, the main challenges I faced were learning new protocols and adjusting to a new place. This program afforded me the opportunity to have a preceptor who helped get me acclimated to the facility while educating me on the hospital’s protocols and how things are done here.

Can you describe a specific moment where the program made a difference in your confidence or skills? 

There’s not one specific moment, but really a collection of moments with my preceptor. I had such a wonderful preceptor who was always available to answer my questions and grow my confidence over the course of the program.

What are your future career goals for nursing? 

I’m planning to expand my knowledge and skills by working and getting experience in different departments such as the intensive care unit, emergency department and obstetrics.

Do you have any long-term aspirations, such as becoming a nurse educator, preceptor or leader in the field?

Right now, I am working to finish my bachelor’s degree. I love to teach and would consider becoming an educator in the future. However, I’m currently focused on gaining more experience in different departments first.