COVID-19 on New Primary Care Nurse Practitioners: A Qualitative Exploration

New nurse practitioners (NPs) struggle with the transition to practice and feelings of uncertainty concerning roles and responsibilities. COVID-19 has added a new layer of stress. This pilot study used a qualitative case study design featuring semistructured interviews of 10 newly graduated primary care NPs. Data analysis revealed 2 main themes: (1) emotional burden, and (2) coping and support. Emerging themes highlight the resiliency of NPs, who cope and seek support when faced with emotional burdens. This study informs educators and employers on the needs of new NPs during a global pandemic in order to better support the future workforce. •Limited research exists examining nurse practitioner transition to practice within a global pandemic•Two main themes emerged from new nurse practitioners during COVID-19: emotional burden and coping/support•Even when faced with the stress of COVID-19, new nurse practitioners demonstrated resiliency.