- Why should I select a hospital that has a residency program?
A hospital with a residency program indicates the organization’s commitment to supporting new nurses as they transition into their professional practice. Further, residency programs provide a robust curriculum, opportunities for professional growth and support for new graduates as they learn their new role.
- Am I guaranteed a job after I complete the residency program?
New graduates who are hired into an open position within a particular unit automatically participate in the residency program.
- What support is available for new graduates?
New graduates who are hired into an open position have support at the unit level from their preceptor, managers and educators. They also have support from their residency cohorts and through multiple organizational support programs.
- How long is the residency program, and is it paid?
The residency program is six months, and residents are paid during that time.
- What is the shift?
A new graduate’s shift is based on the unit to which they are hired. Residency seminar hours are held during the morning or afternoon.
- Will I rotate through different units during the program?
No. New graduates are hired to a specific unit and complete orientation in that unit. Subject to change based on health system or nurse residency program needs.
- Do the work hours per week include the residency class and on-unit time?
During orientation, nurse residents are scheduled up to 40 hours per week, which include residency seminar and class time.
- Will I have multiple preceptors?
We try to limit the number of preceptors. Therefore, new graduates have primary and secondary preceptors and additional preceptors, only as needed.
- How do I apply?
Visit our careers page and apply online.
Candidate interviews are conducted, then positions within specific units are offered.
- When do I apply?
We recommend that new graduates apply three to four months before their graduation date.
- What to know about the residency program:
The purpose of the program is to assist the new graduate nurse through the transition from student nurse to professional nurse, emphasizing the development of critical thinking skills related to clinical practice and safe patient care. In addition, the program seeks to develop new nurses as leaders and productive health care team members as they advance from novice to competent nurse.
Specifically, the residency program includes:
- Unit precepted experience
- Nine seminars (every other week for two weeks, then monthly for five months)
- Communication
- Prioritization
- Critical Thinking
- Dealing with Difficult Patients
- Professional Development
- Failure to Rescue
- Skill Development and Simulation
- Patient Safety Strategies
- Lastly, we strive to help the residents achieve the following goals:
- Increase confidence and competence
- Incorporate evidence-based practices into professional roles
- Develop clinical leadership skills
- Promote professional development
- What do I need to complete the online application process?
To complete the process, applicants will need:
- Up-to-date resume
- Clinical references
