Ingalls Announces Nurse Residency Program

(May, 2008) Ingalls Memorial Hospital in Harvey has developed a comprehensive 12-week Nurse Residency and Orientation Program to help newly licensed graduate nurses make a smooth, successful transition from nursing student to bedside staff nurse.

Implemented last fall, the hospital offers the program twice a year to coincide with May and December nursing school graduations. The next session is slated to begin in September.

“The program establishes a consistent, structured orientation curriculum that recognizes the unique requirements for new graduates in the acute-care setting,” explains Deborah Lawrence, APN BC, CNS MS, education coordinator at Ingalls. “Program participants can expect to complete the orientation process with enhanced skills, increased confidence and a full appreciation of their new role as a professional nurse.”

The hospital “graduated” 22 RNs from the program’s inaugural program, which began last August. Overall participant feedback has been very positive, as was feedback from Ingalls nurse managers.

“Three RNs who completed the residency program last fall now work on my nursing unit,” explains Martha Lulinski, RN, manager of East 6. “The program gave them the added instruction and confidence they need to become successful working RNs. The residency program has been a wonderful addition to our nursing orientation process.”

Features of the Ingalls Nurse Residency Program include:

A professional partnership with experienced, enthusiastic RN preceptors who work with the new graduate during the first 12 weeks of employment at Ingalls.

A series of six thoughtfully planned classroom sessions built into the work schedule that will enhance skills in assessment, decision-making, critical thinking and leadership.

Support sessions that are built into the curriculum allowing for a comfortable and confidential environment to
share their orientation experiences with one another.

A series of skills labs designed to build upon the individual’s current knowledge and assist with the transition to independent professional.

“Along the way, participants learn practical solutions to dilemmas new nurses often face, gaining self-confidence as they move from novice to seasoned caregiver,” she added.

Program Details

The program is offered twice a year, in March and September, and consists of 48 hours of classroom time and approximately 480 hours of clinical time with an experienced preceptor (12 weeks). Formal classroom experience introduces the nurse to Ingalls’ culture, resources and expectations for the professional nurse. Written and verbal feedback is provided on a routine basis.

“Our preceptors are seasoned, unit-based RNs who work one-on-one with residency nurses, imparting technical and clinical knowledge, and helping them to develop clinical decision-making skills,” Lawrence said.

Program eligibility is available to any recent graduates of an ADN or BSN program from an accredited school of nursing with immediate plans to complete state boards. Candidates must have a current Illinois State RN license by the start date of the program.

For more information about Ingalls Nurse Residency Program, please call 708.915.6864.

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