Nursing students and the patients they hope to serve got some good news from the Vancouver Island Health Authority.
“The need for skilled nurses will continue to grow in the coming years as our population ages and demands on our health care system increase,” said Lynn Stevenson, VIHA’s Chief Nurse and executive vice-president of people, organizational development and practice.
“To help meet that need, the Vancouver Island Health Authority is offering employment to all graduates of Vancouver Island registered nursing programs in 2012 and ‘13,” she said.
Graduating registered nurses from the University of Victoria, Vancouver Island University, North Island College, and Registered Psychiatric Nurses from Stenberg College will be offered temporary full-time positions in a wide range of locations and practice settings that require additional support.
“Their help will reinforce the work of our dedicated nursing staff and ensure we have experienced nurses in place to move into the roles of retiring nurses,” she said. “There are many benefits to bringing the enthusiasm and new learning of nursing graduates into our organization. “In addition to building the foundation for sustainable health care on Vancouver Island, mentoring relationships strengthen practice and create a positive work environment where nurses can provide the best care possible for patients.”
VIHA’s New Graduate Transition Program, in place since 2005, gives new nurses the opportunity to take advantage of mentorship opportunities, transitional workshops and orientation activities.
The program increases their confidence, consolidates their skills and helps them integrate into the culture of their new role.
— Submitted by VIHA
