The Impact of Accreditation on Nursing Transition Into Practice Residency Programs

Abstract

The evidence is clear: transition to practice (TTP) residency programs are essential for new graduate nurses (NGNs) entering the profession, for effective organizational efficiency, and for enhanced, safe patient care. Meanwhile, some nurse leaders struggle to inspire others, including chief executive and financial officers, to invest in TTP residency programs, and some nurse leaders are not convinced of the value. In this article, we reinforce the case for TTP residency programs and the impact of their being accredited. We do so by offering an example of a health care system's experience standardizing a TTP across 7 states (53 acute care hospitals). Furthermore, we offer a model to demonstrate how accredited programs benefit nurses and organizations by having a significantly lower turnover rate than nonaccredited programs. Finally, this article offers concrete actions that nurse leaders can take to ensure a safe and meaningful journey for new graduate nurses entering our profession.