The Blessing Hospital Nurse Residency Program, designed to help support and mentor newly licensed registered nurses and reduce the turnover rate, has been awarded Accreditation with Distinction.
Accreditation with Distinction is the highest recognition awarded by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Accreditation Program. Only 43% of accredited hospitals nationwide and 38% in Illinois receive this prestigious distinction. The honor is reserved for those meeting the rigorous national standards and also demonstrating exemplary and innovative practices across various accreditation criteria.
“Blessing's accomplishment in obtaining this distinction signifies a commitment to excellence and innovation, setting a benchmark for others in the field,” said Eydie Tipton, DNP, RN, CCRN, CNML, EBP-C, program director, Nurse Residency Program, Blessing Hospital.
The reaccreditation was granted for four years. Blessing began its program in 2015, receiving initial accreditation in 2021. To date nearly 600 registered nurses have completed the program.
The ANCC certifies and recognizes health care organizations that promote nursing excellence and quality patient outcomes while providing safe, positive work environments. Blessing Hospital’s Nurse Residency Program is one of 295 nationwide to hold ANCC accreditation.
Nurse residency programs, also known as Transition to Practice programs for newly licensed registered nurses, aim to bridge the gap between academic training and clinical practice. These programs provide structured support and mentorship, helping new nurses develop confidence and competence in their roles. Additionally, they enhance patient care quality by ensuring that nurses are well-prepared to handle the complexities of the healthcare environment; in turn, these initiatives reduce first-year turnover.
National figures show as many as 30% of registered nurses will change jobs or even professions within the first year after graduation and approximately 50% leave their first job within two years. The double-digit turnover rate can affect delivery of patient care and labor costs.
“This fantastic achievement puts us at the forefront of nursing education, helping us attract top talent and build a culture of continuous learning and professional growth,” Tipton added. “The vision and dedication to nursing excellence of our Nurse Residency Advisory Board and support of our organization have been key to our ongoing success and recognition. They ensure we're providing top-notch training and support to our newly licensed registered nurses.”
“Our team is committed to ensuring that the curriculum is comprehensive, engaging, and tailored to accommodate diverse learning styles,” said Amy Oshner, MSN, RN, CNOR, site coordinator, Nurse Residency Program, Blessing Hospital. “This recognition reflects the immense dedication, effort, and meticulous planning that our team invests in developing, implementing, evaluating, and refining the curriculum for each cohort of nurse residents.”