Description: The Vice President of Nursing identified facilities that were in need of additional educational support related to critical care nursing. A consultant, who is a full time academic faculty, was hired in January, 2006 to facilitate corporate-wide critical care nursing education. Needs assessment with involvement of other members of the health care team and nursing leaders were conducted to plan educational programs. Consultant presented the critical care series in coordination with approval of provider status from American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) in March. Attendance was excellent as RNs were invited to participate corporately at facility sites. The positive feedback from the nurses led to repeated lectures to capture the remainder of the nurses. Instructors and directors throughout the network evaluate the competencies as a follow up measure. A nursing collaborative involving directors and educators from the 11 HHC facilities was formed in June to enhance this educational initiative. A CCRN and CEN review team was formed to maximize the clinical resources utilization. Essentials of Critical Care Orientation (ECCO) were introduced to enhance self-directed learning. A critical care nursing residency program for nursing students is in the planning phase.  
 
Outcome:  Nursing practice will improve to the level of AACN standards. This will be measured by pre/post tests and competencies at the bedside. Job satisfaction of the critical care nurses as evidenced by an increase in the recruitment and retention rate will be monitored.