Nurse Residency Program

This program is designed to promote an effective transition from student role to R.N. This process includes integration into the nursing profession and development of a professional identity.

All newly hired R.N.s with less than a year of experience in acute care will participate in the residency program that spans over one year.

Program structure

The Nurse Residency Program is a 12-month program with four distinct phases. The program is highly supportive, with sequential learning experiences including didactic classroom lectures, structured computer-based learning, case studies and clinical experiences incorporating simulations and hands-on technical skill development.

Phase one (two weeks)

Phase one begins upon the completion of general hospital and nursing classroom orientation. During this phase, the nurse resident will complete a two-week rotation through various departments. This provides the resident with an opportunity to observe workflow, team contribution and communication in different areas related to their home unit.

Phase two (four weeks)

During the second phase, the nurse resident will work with a preceptor to support clinical competency development while focusing on time management skills and complete unit-based orientation.

Phase three (approximately six weeks – varies per department)

In the third phase, the nurse resident will complete the orientation process by focusing on the development of critical thinking while caring for more complex patients.

Phase four (begins at approximately 12 weeks through approximately 12 months)

In the final phase, the nurse resident will begin working independently as a beside nurse. At the same time, the R.N. will continue attending the 12 monthly didactic classes and be supported by the nurse residency coordinator.