Following analysis of a critical incident, we discuss role identity stressors during knowledge acquisition. Specifically, we examine one nurse’s supposition that expert knowledge is automatically transferable despite having a different role expectation. We share the unexpectedly powerful and potentially ego-deflating experience of one advanced practice nurse (APN) student preparing for the challenge of transitioning from novice to expert as a new APN. However, the greater lesson learned was failing to appreciate the transition in role identity from expert to novice that one undergoes as a registered nurse (RN) to APN student.
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