What action indicates that a newly licensed nurse is transitioning from novice to advanced beginner?

The action of contacting the provider after noting a client's abnormal laboratory results reflects a transition from novice to advanced beginner because it demonstrates the ability to recognize and respond to critical patient information with professional judgment. As novice nurses primarily rely on rules and guidelines, they may not fully understand the implications of abnormal results or when to act. However, an advanced beginner starts to develop situational awareness and can identify when there is a need for further intervention.

Contacting the provider indicates a recognition of a change in a patient's condition and an understanding of the chain of command in clinical practice. It shows the nurse is beginning to prioritize patient safety and is becoming more comfortable with clinical decision-making, which are hallmarks of advancing from novice to advanced beginner in nursing practice. This level of intervention reflects a growing competence and confidence, as the nurse not only identifies a problem but also takes appropriate steps to address it by engaging the provider in decision-making for the patient’s care.