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NPD Scope & Standards of Practice (2010) state that nursing professional development is “the process of pursuing activities to enhance professional competence and role performance” with the ultimate outcome of “the provision of safe, quality care.” A recognized benefit of the residency is the provision of professional development opportunities for multiple stakeholders—not only the Resident, but other RNs and members of the interprofessional team who participate in the residency. Opportunities discussed include continuing education, certification, and support for academic progression.
To measure the success of a program it is necessary to include an ongoing evaluation process to analyze the impact and overall effectiveness in fulfilling program goals and objectives (Oermann, & Gaberson, 2013). Over the years residency programs have consistently demonstrated a positive effect on work and nurse satisfaction, competence, and retention (Ulrich, Krozek, Early, Africa, & Carman, 2010; Goode, Lynn, McElroy, Bednash, & Murray, 2013). Part of this session describes how an organization selects relevant outcome measurements that align the metric with the goals of the residency. Session participants will be provided with a tool to identify outcomes based on program goals and objectives. Outcome results will then provide insight into the overall impact of the program while showcasing successes, and providing guidance for change or revision.
Stakeholder engagement in the residency is a key component to ensuring sustainability. Participation in personal and professional development activities and working with program outcomes affect not only the Resident, but the unit, the organization, nursing as a profession and of most value, the patients which we serve.