Integrating Evidence Into Practice Through a Nurse Residency Program

Purpose:
Residency Programs measure success by improved retention rates and the positive impact research based evidence has on patient outcomes. Creating a successful nurse residency program that engages nurses to recognize the importance of integrating evidence into practice is the goal of this initiative.

Relevance/Significance:
Offering a robust Nurse Residency Program provides opportunities for new-to-the-profession nurses to interact with content experts throughout the organization, form relationships with experienced nurse mentors, and change practice by actively participating in the completion of an evidence-based practice project.

Strategy and Implementation:
Nurse residency programs extend beyond traditional orientation programs to engage and empower new nurses to be critical thinkers and leaders at the bedside. This presentation details how one academic, Magnet® community hospital responded to the Institute of Medicine and Robert Wood Johnson's 2010 “Future of Nursing” Recommendation 3: Implement nurse residency programs. Partnering with a nationally accredited residency program to offer a robust transition-to-practice program to bachelor's prepared graduates was the first action taken. Next, a unique curriculum focused on leadership, patient outcomes, and professionalism was devised. Finally, a requirement for residents to complete an EBP project was established. Using The Iowa Model of Evidence-Based Practice to Promote Quality Care as a guide, EBP Facilitators coach residents through completion of their projects, which are shared with nurse leaders and colleagues through a formal presentation at graduation.

Evaluation:
The goal to improve graduate nurse retention rates through implementation of a nurse residency program was met. Retention rates exceed the baseline rate of 86.8% since inception. To date, 51 completed evidence-based practice projects, in various specialties, have positively impacted clinical practice as evidenced by improved patient outcomes.

Implications for Practice:
Completing an EBP project within the first 12 months of hire allows nurse residents to positively impact clinical practice early in their career. A variety of evidence-based practice projects and subsequent outcomes will be highlighted.