Sutter Nurse Residency Program nurses take part in a simulation training with a mannequin.

For a registered nurse, the first days on the job can feel like a whirlwind. Stress, pressure and information overload are some of the realities many new nurses face. But within Sutter Health, those early days come with strong support — so new nurses can focus on delivering safe, compassionate care.

Through its innovative Nurse Residency Program, Sutter offers new nurses the confidence-boosting and skill-building support they need for a fulfilling career. Launched in 2017, the program has already supported more than 2,000 newly graduated nurses and is helping ensure that the next generation of caregivers is well prepared to care for our communities.

Laura Bower

“Nurse residency programs bridge the gap between nursing school and real-world clinical practice,” explained registered nurse Laura Bower, Clinical Education manager, who oversees the program. “At Sutter, every new nurse with less than one year of experience has the opportunity to participate.”

The nurse residency program, run through Sutter Health University, encourages collaboration between newly graduated registered nurses and experienced clinicians to ease the transition into bedside care.  Nurses gain hands-on experience through an evidence-based curriculum, skills lab, simulation training and clinical practice in their assigned units — helping them build skills and confidence in real-world scenarios.

Depending on the specialty or clinical area where a new graduate is hired, the program spans between 70-160 hours over six to seven months. To ensure effective learning, participants are split into small learning groups within their cohort, with each group having about eight members.

“Small groups give us the chance to personalize the learning experience and provide mentorship in a meaningful way,” Bower said. “In addition, peer support, emotional support and administrative guidance are provided throughout — and beyond — the program.”

An invaluable experience for new nurses

“The program has provided me a place to ask questions in a safe environment—and to make mistakes and learn from them,” said Amanda Burk, a surgical nurse at Sutter Auburn Faith Hospital who is currently enrolled in the residency program. “I’m grateful for the confidence the program has provided me.”

Sara Heckley

Sara Heckley, co-lead for the Nurse Residency Program, says for patients, the benefits are clear.

“When nurses are well-trained and supported by their teams, they become more prepared, attentive, and effective in delivering the highest quality of care,” she said.

Commitment to Nursing Excellence

Sutter’s investment in workforce development programs is one way the healthcare system helps attract and retain strong talent. Structured residency programs are shown to improve participants’ clinical competence, which directly improves patient outcomes and safety. Additionally, residency programs can help reduce burnout for first-time nurses while also reducing turnover by building confidence and a sense of belonging.

Kat Ascencio-Holmes

“When our nurses feel supported, it shows in the care they provide,” said Katrina (Kat) Ascencio-Holmes, Sutter Health’s Chief Nurse Officer, and a registered nurse. “At Sutter, we offer a wide range of skill-building and development programs to support training and career growth. Just last year, 245 talented new nurses went through our Nurse Residency Program — preparing them for a successful, meaningful career and a strong start in serving our patients.”

Prior to 2017, Sutter Health University supported new graduate nurses through the RN-Strong program. Barb Welton, Clinical Nurses Educator Lead and the lead for the Nurse Residency Program, says that original program has evolved over the years.

Barb Welton

“Today’s program reflects the diversity of our care environments and the importance of consistency across our system,” said Welton. “The nurse residency program is available to any new nurse from multiple entities — including inpatient, outpatient and ambulatory care settings.”

Added Welton, the program experience often leaves nurses with a lasting impression.

“The support, education and simulations offered during the nurse residency program might span just six months or so, but the impact can stay with participants throughout their nursing journey,” Welton said. “Many participants return to Sutter Health University throughout their careers for continued learning and development opportunities.”

A Full-Circle Moment

For Bower, leading the residency program carries personal meaning.

“I went through the program as a new nurse graduate in 2017,” Bower says. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to return as an educator and now as a leader supporting this program – and to help new grads have a similar, positive experience.”

By investing in new nurses from the start of their career, Sutter Health is investing in better care, stronger teams and healthier communities. In this way, Sutter Health demonstrates its commitment to building a workplace where everyone can reach their full potential.

Find more information about the Sutter Health Nurses Residency Program here.