Technology, gamification and mentorship adds to attracting, training and retaining the next generation of nurses
As the nursing workforce continues to evolve, healthcare systems must develop innovative opportunities to continue supporting and training new graduates. At Broward Health, that shift is well underway with a redesigned Nurse Residency Program blending high-tech simulation, gamified learning and a robust mentorship model to empower the next generation of clinical professionals.
Meeting the Moment: A New Kind of Nurse
Across the nation, healthcare leaders are noticing a clear trend: new nurses entering the profession often have less interest in bedside roles. Many graduates struggle to adapt to fast-paced inpatient environments, resulting in early burnout and high turnover. In response to these challenges, Broward Health has established internal staffing pools and strengthened partnerships with local colleges such as Broward College, Nova Southeastern University, Keiser University, Florida Atlantic University and Florida International University.
“New nurses are walking into high-pressure roles, often without the preparation needed to succeed,” said Sylvia Sloane Jones, APRN, who manages the Broward Health Nurse Residency Program. “Our program bridges that gap, technically and emotionally, so they feel equipped, confident and connected.”
A New Era of Nurse Education
Broward Health has made significant updates to its simulation training labs used to train nurses and other staff. These labs incorporate the use of high-tech simulation manikins that help nurses practice critical skills, such as airway management and cardiac response, before ever caring for a real patient. These manikins respond to medication types and doses, simulate complications like seizures and offer real-time feedback. Simulation-based training is also used by emergency medical teams and clinical staff across departments, including ICU, OR and medical-surgical units.
To improve nurse resident engagement and problem-solving skills, Broward Health has integrated gamified elements into its nurse residency program to align with changing learning styles, transforming lectures into clinical escape rooms filled with clues, invisible ink and collaborative challenges. These three-day intensives focus on soft skills like communication and teamwork while reinforcing clinical protocols and policies.“Gamified learning sparks energy and engagement,” said Jones. “It improves retention, sharpens decision-making and makes learning memorable.”
The core mission of the program is to set realistic expectations for what bedside nursing looks like. That includes managing patient loads, collaborating with physicians and adapting to unpredictable demands. Many graduates find these responsibilities overwhelming, particularly if they lacked strong clinical exposure in school.
“By normalizing the challenges and offering structured support, we help new nurses push through the steep learning curve instead of walking away,” Jones said.
The residency spans one year, starting with General/Nursing Orientation and a three-day residency onboarding, followed by a 12-16-week orientation. Residents then receive ongoing mentorship, clinical debriefing and leadership development opportunities.
How Broward Health Raises the Bar for Nurse Training
- Monthly Cohort Start Dates: Unlike many hospitals that onboard quarterly, Broward Health welcomes new nurse residents each month.
- Ongoing Commitment to New Grads: While some institutions have reduced hiring of new graduates, Broward Health continues to invest in their development.
- Graduate Nurse Community: Residents join a strong peer network with access to resources, mentorship and community.
- Innovative Learning Tools: From simulation to gamification, training is scenario-based and meets national education standards.
- Dedicated Mentorship: Each resident works with a support specialist for one-on-one clinical guidance.
“Our model blends traditional structure with the innovation needed to meet today’s workforce where they are,” said Jones. “We’re showing nurses what’s possible and giving them the support to stay, grow and thrive.”
Celebrating a Milestone Year
The redesigned Nurse Residency Program officially launched in early 2024. As it nears its one-year anniversary, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Graduates report increased confidence, readiness and job satisfaction.
Jones sees the program as both a recruitment and retention strategy, reinforcing Broward Health’s long-term commitment to building a resilient nursing workforce.
For more information or to apply, visit BrowardHealth.org/Nurse-Residency-Program or contact Sylvia Sloane Jones, at sljones@browardhealth.org.
