Education

The Nurse Residency Program, which launched in 2023, is a nine-month program that follows newly graduated nurses for their first year of practice, extending beyond the department-specific orientation.   

The program is designed to support newly licensed nurses as they transition from academic preparation to professional clinical practice. This structured program provides a comprehensive curriculum that enhances clinical competence, fosters professional development, and cultivates future nurse leaders. 

• Clinical Skill Development: Residents refine their clinical judgment and hands-on nursing skills through guided practice, simulation, and direct mentorship by experienced clinical preceptors.
• Professional Development: Focused sessions support the growth of communication, critical thinking, and resilience — empowering nurses to adapt confidently to the dynamic healthcare environment.
• Leadership Coordination: Residents gain foundational leadership skills, emphasizing teamwork, delegation, and coordination of patient care to promote safe, high-quality outcomes.
• Policies and Procedures: Participants receive in-depth education on institutional policies and evidence-based procedures to ensure consistent, safe, and compliant practice across all settings.
• Legal Importance of Documentation: The program underscores the significance of accurate and timely documentation, highlighting its essential role in patient safety, quality improvement, and legal protection for both patients and providers.
• Electronic Medical Record (EMR) and Informatics Support: An informatics team provides specialized training and ongoing support to help residents utilize the electronic medical record effectively, ensuring documentation accuracy and workflow efficiency.

Through a blend of classroom learning, clinical immersion, and professional mentorship, the Nurse Residency Program prepares participants to deliver compassionate, evidence-based care while developing the leadership skills necessary for long-term success in the nursing profession. 

Jarrod McMaster, DNP, RN
Director, Critical Care Services & Education
WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital
[email protected]

Jessica Oswald
Educator, Education Department
WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital
[email protected]

The Aspiring Nurse Program at WVU Medicine provides financial and human-centered support to nursing students enrolled at select schools.

Students accepted into the program will receive up to $25,000 over the course of their study, including a final payment upon hire in exchange for a three-year work commitment following graduation.

Uniontown Hospital is proud to partner with Penn State University-Fayette to offer financial assistance to help students with life expenses while in nursing school.

In addition to financial assistance, students are paired with a local WVU Medicine liaison to mentor them throughout nursing school and help during their transition to practice as a new RN.

For more information, visit the Aspiring Nurse Program page.