LVHN Nurse Residency Program Earns Third ANCC PTAP Accreditation with Distinction for Excellence in RN Transition

The first day of a new job comes with a mix of anticipation, excitement and perhaps a bit of anxiety about what lies ahead. For newly licensed nurses at Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), part of Jefferson Health, a specially designed program guides and supports them for the first year of their nursing career. 

LVHN’s Nurse Residency Program is recognized among the best in the nation at preparing graduate nurses for a successful transition into clinical practice and a rewarding career in nursing, and more than 90% of graduates remain with LVHN after one year.

“Newly licensed nurses bring fresh energy, passion and dedication to the profession,” says Christine Hartner, DNP, RN, Regional Chief Nursing Officer, Jefferson Health–Lehigh Valley. “Throughout their nurse residency experience, they create a meaningful, lasting impact that strengthens our entire care team.”

On Dec. 15, the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s (ANCC) Commission on Accreditation in Practice Transition Programs awarded Lehigh Valley Health Network Vizient/AACN Nurse Residency Program™ Accreditation with Distinction, the highest recognition awarded by the ANCC. This is the third consecutive accreditation since 2018, when LVHN’s program was the first in Pennsylvania to receive a prestigious Accreditation with Distinction from ANCC.

“This incredible achievement represents Jefferson Health’s commitment to nursing excellence starting on day one of a nurse’s career,” says Kate FitzPatrick, DNP, RN, Chief Nurse Executive Officer, Jefferson Health. “Experienced mentors nurture the growth and development of newly licensed nurses, and ensure they are well prepared to deliver exceptional patient care.”

The LVHN Nurse Residency Program is a yearlong development course that incorporates curriculum from Vizient and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). It is considered the gold standard among nurse residency programs and provides newly licensed nurses with a foundation for clinical leadership and critical thinking.

The comprehensive approach to training results in decreased turnover, enhanced clinical leadership and empowerment to change practice. The program boasts more than 3,250 graduates who have completed nearly 950 evidence-based projects, contributing to the advancement of nursing practice at LVHN.