Residency Foundations: Organizational Support and Enculturation

The goal of every residency is to provide RNs in transition with a standardized, evidence-based program that contributes to an environment of excellence for nursing practice (Shinners, Ashlock & Brooks, 2014). Before an organization considers a residency program, needs and readiness to change assessments must be completed. During this time key stakeholders come together to identify their roles within the residency as well as the purpose, goals, and perceived challenges. It is critical to the success of the program that organizational leadership commits to providing the support needed to initiate and sustain a residency program. Leadership also provides direction and guidance throughout the course of the residency ensuring identified competencies and educational activities are relevant to the needs of the organization as well as advocating for fiscal, material, and personnel resources (ANCC, 2014).

This session uses case study to provide an exemplar where a large 7 facility health system implemented the residency to address critical concerns of high vacancy rates, turnover, and lack of preceptor and mentor pools (Shinners, Ashlock & Brooks, 2014). It provides participants with strategies to enculturate all stakeholders regarding organizational mission, vision and values and how they are assimilated into practice.

Using ANCC Magnet and Practice Transition Accreditation Program (PTAP) models, presenters will describe how the structure of a residency program supports a healthy work environment where RNs are provided with the tools and experiences to focus on professional development and quality care while transitioning to their role.