Harrison Medical Center graduated its first registered nurse (RN) residency group in January, concluding an 18-week training program. This new program provides newly licensed RNs with evidence-based education and training.

Harrison has partnered with Versant, a non-profit corporation consisting of expert nurse educators, nurse researchers, statisticians, and technology experts, to centralize resident training across the entire organization.

Each of the 13 RN residents in the first group gained clinical experience in various departments and areas to better understand the patient experience. These new nurses were paired with experienced nurses for clinical and classroom training. The Versant program is designed for a seasoned nurse to take the lead in care as the new nurse gains confidence and valuable skills. The new nurse also must demonstrate competency in what has been taught at the bedside and in the classroom.

Harrison’s first Versant RN residency group recently was featured in the online version of NurseWeek magazine.

The program is funded by the Harrison Medical Center Foundation campaign, Great Nurses for a Great Community. This campaign supports education efforts to boost the recruitment and retention of nurses at every level.