RN Residency and Fellow Programs

Over 3000 nurses have chosen the RN Residency/Fellowship Program at Swedish since our launch in 2011 because of the outstanding support we provide for all aspects of a role transition. 

Residents (new grads) and Fellows (new-to-specialty RNs) quickly develop their critical thinking and clinical nursing skills through the combination of classroom and simulation learning in conjunction with on unit learning with a designated preceptor. 

We recently adopted the curriculum of the Providence Clinical Academy while maintaining the quality and connections that we know our people count on.

Program Objectives

RN Residents will:

  • Transition from entry-level advanced beginner to competent professional nurse in the clinical environment.
  • Develop effective decision-making skills related to clinical judgement and performance.
  • Develop strategies to incorporate research-based and other evidence into practice.
  • Implement clinical leadership skills at the point of patient care.
  • Practice collaboratively as members of the inter-professional healthcare team.
  • Formulate an individual career plan that promotes a life-long commitment to professional nursing.

Eligibility Criteria

RN Residents

  • Graduation from an ADN, BSN or entry-level Master's in Nursing program
  • Have less than 1 year of RN nursing experience at the start of the Residency cohort
  • Active, unencumbered Washington RN license
  • Active American Heart Association BLS card

RN Fellows

  • Active, unencumbered Washington RN license
  • Active American Heart Association BLS card
  • 1 or more years of RN experience

Program Components

The first 12 weeks for Residents and Fellows include:

  • An evidence-based curriculum grounded in adult learning theory and using flipped classroom methodology​
  • Interactive simulations​
  • 2 (or more) shifts on the unit every week with a preceptor, where you will apply your knowledge and develop your skills and workflow
  • Instructional and 1:1 evaluation support by our team of Professional Development Specialists

Orientation continues on the unit with a preceptor for the full FTE until the Resident or Fellow can independently care for a typical assignment at a typical acuity level.

Expected orientation time:

12 Weeks

  • Behavioral Health
  • Med/Surg
  • Postpartum
  • Telemetry
  • Pediatrics
  • PACU

14-16 Weeks

  • Antepartum
  • Cardiovascular Lab (Fellows only)
  • Critical Care Fellows
  • Emergency Department
  • Pediatric ICU

20+ Weeks

  • Critical Care Residents
  • Labor & Delivery
  • Neonatal ICU
  • Perioperative

Continued support after orientation:

  • Transition to Practice classes online, where you can connect and collaborate with other RN Residents, throughout the first year
  • Development of an evidence-based practice project to showcase at the completion of the program

Swedish is committed to your ongoing professional development by offering a mentorship program, explorative learning, and continuing education opportunities.