Jefferson Healthcare’s New Grad RN Residency Program: A Launching Pad for Success

Jefferson Healthcare’s Alexandria Niehaus offers insight on the hospital’s New Grad RN Residency Program. The program offers support and education to new nurses, helping ensure a successful transition from school into the workforce.

April 15, 2024

For many newly graduated nurses, a big question looms: Now what?

The transition from student nurse to a fully independent healthcare professional can be daunting, but Jefferson Healthcare’s New Grad RN Residency Program aims to smooth that transition and provide newly graduated nurses with the support they need for long-term career success.

Supporting New Nurses

Alexandria Niehaus, critical care clinical nurse educator at Jefferson Healthcare, shared insights into this innovative program on a recent episode of the To Your Health podcast.

The one-year program offers catered support to nurses fresh out of nursing school, says Niehaus. What’s more, participants “progress through the program with other newly graduated nurses,” allowing new nurses to build lasting connections within their cohort.

In addition to learning on the job, the program “focuses on education and collaboration,” says Niehaus. “Throughout this program,” she continues, “participants receive additional support from not only the education department, your nursing leaders, but also from your preceptors.” Nurse educators also facilitate classroom time that is used “to share about our experiences and talk through the growing pains of being a new nurse.”

Listen to the podcast to get the full story.

What Makes Jefferson Healthcare Different?

But what sets Jefferson Healthcare’s program apart? Niehaus highlights the program’s small cohort sizes, averaging between five and seven new grads. This setting fosters a sense of community and allows for personalized attention and support — a stark contrast to larger hospital programs where new nurses may feel lost in the shuffle.

Furthermore, the program prioritizes flexibility and adaptability, essential traits in the ever-evolving field of healthcare. To help build these skills, new nurses at Jefferson Healthcare cross-train in different departments, providing them with diverse experiences and opportunities to expand their skill sets.

How to Apply

To be eligible for Jefferson Healthcare’s New Grad Nurse Residency Program, applicants must be newly graduated RNs within six months of completing their nursing program. Applicants participate in a panel interview and write brief essay as part of the process.

If you’re a new nurse, or about to graduate as one, and want to experience a supportive environment where you’ll learn the skills you need to thrive in your profession, visit our website! Jefferson Healthcare’s New Grad RN Residency Program accepts new applicants each spring.