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Critical care immersion

Sound research has shown that new graduates benefit from orientation. Regions Hospital has developed a program for new nurses who have a passion to become a long term critical care nurse at Regions Hospital. Our Critical Care Immersion Program is an 18-month learning experience for new registered nurses, who hold a BSN or BAN. Associate Degree nurses with a bachelor’s degree in a health related field are also encouraged to apply. Nurses are hired as cohorts twice a year.

Initially, the nurses are orientated to and work on various general care/tele units. Upon completion to this unit (Phase I), the nurse will progress to independently caring for patients on this unit (Phase II); this provides opportunities to enhance time management, documentation, prioritization and assessment skills. Also, during Phase II these nurses will also have opportunities to “shadow” our four critical care units, which will help them understand what the nurses role is in each of these critical care areas. During this time, the immersion nurses are supported by preceptors, decentralized nurse educators, nurse managers and a Director of Nursing.

After spending several months on the general care/tele unit, the new grads will transfer to one of our ICU areas and begin critical care orientation (Phase III). Once the nurse has progressed to having an independent assignment in the critical care unit he/she is in Phase IV. While this program is customized for each nurse, the goal is to help each nurse reach phase IV within 18 months of hire.

Regions Hospital - For Nurses - Critical care immersion nurses

The program typically accepts applications twice a year (spring and fall) for a limited time. Applications are only accepted when posted. To see, please visit the Regions Hospital Career Site.

Megan, RN, and Kris, RN, have completed the Critical Care Immersion Program and are now working in our Surgical Intensive Care Unit.