News

By Trish Yerges, for Grande Ronde Hospital and Clinics

When a newly licensed nurse begins their career, the leap from the classroom to the bedside can feel daunting. At Grande Ronde Hospital, that transition comes with a safety net — one built on mentorship, hands-on learning, and genuine support.
The GRH Nurse Residency Program is a year-long journey designed to help new nurses gain confidence as they step into professional practice. Through extended orientation, individualized mentorship, and focused education, residents are guided every step of the way by Nurse Residency Coordinator Nikkita Titus, MSN, RN, and Clinical Nurse Educator Bre Rollins, MSN, RN, CEN.
“The first year can be overwhelming,” Rollins said. “Our program helps new nurses find their footing, not just in their skills, but in their sense of belonging.”
Residents work closely with experienced preceptors in their departments, participate in monthly education days, and gain exposure to specialty simulations and certifications. It’s a combination of classroom and clinical learning that strengthens both competence and confidence.
For Ashley Wyatt, BSN, RN, a recent graduate of the program, that support made all the difference.
“The residency gave me the chance to find my place,” Wyatt said. “When a Med-Surg floor position opened, I knew it was where I wanted to be. I had the foundation and encouragement to step into that role.”
Since its start, the GRH Nurse Residency Program has maintained an impressive 96% retention rate over the last four years, with most graduates choosing to stay and grow their careers at GRH.
“It’s rewarding to see our residents stay,” Titus said. “They’re not just becoming strong nurses, they’re becoming part of the GRH family.”
Applications for the next residency cohort are open to newly licensed nurses from across the region. Interested applicants can contact Titus at njc01@grh.org for details.